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MORRIS SIGNET. 



V 



A General History 



OF THE 



Order of the Eastern Star 



REV. WILLIS D. ENGLE 

Past Grand Patron of Indiana, and first Right Worthy Grand Secretary 
of the General Grand Chapter of the Order 



ILLUSTKATED 



Indianapolis, Ind. 

Willis D. Engle, Publishes 

1901 



THE LIBRARY OF 

CONGRESS, . 
Two Copies Received 

APR. 19 1901 

COPVRiGHT ENTRY 

CLASS <Z/XXc. N« 
COPY B. 






\ A 



• 










This History of the Order of the Eastern Star is 

FRATERNALLY DEDICATED 

By the author to his co-lahorers in the early days of the Order, whose 

eyes have seen the crowning of their labors ; and to the memory 

of those faithful ones among them who have passed on 

to the larger life, and entered upon rest nobly won. 




Copyrighted by Willis D. Engle, 
1901. 



PREFACE. 



TO BE the first to enter an unexplored field, and 
attempt to map out before the understanding of 
one's readers its various characteristics; to delve below 
the soil and thus endeavor to discover the hidden 
sources from which has sprung that which, appears 
upon the surface; and thus to add to the store of 
knowledge, is no easy task, and requires patient, per- 
severing labor. Although the writer of this book 
has been an active worker in the Order of the East- 
ern Star for twenty-eight years, and during all that 
time has been a diligent gatherer of material and 
facts concerning it, and has, by the favor of his fel- 
low-members been placed in positions of trust and 
responsibility, which have given him rare oppor- 
tunities to learn much of the workings of the 
order, yet he had no idea, when he undertook 
the production of this history, how great the task 
would prove, for he has undertaken to be doubly sure 
of the facts stated and has spent days in 
running down some particular item that, perhaps, 
when secured, would not add a dozen lines to the 
work. That it is perfect, and that every essential 
fact that it is possible to ascertain in regard to the 
order is contained in it, he would not pretend to say ; 
but he does say that he has made an honest effort in 
that direction. How far he has succeeded perhaps 
time only can demonstrate. Although there have 
been brief historical sketches of the order written, 
they have been produced generally for a purpose 
other than a simple development of the truth, and 

(3) 



PREFACE. 



the writer knows of none, however brief, that has 
not contained more or less inaccurate statements, 
even as his may be found to do, but none have been 
knowingly made, and he has tried to present every 
fact in an unbiased manner. That his book will meet 
with favorable criticism, he hopes; that it will also 
receive some unfavorable comment, he expects. If 
he succeeds in adding something toi the common 
stock of knowledge and understanding, and in res- 
cuing some facts from being lost, and is privileged 
to be an instrument in adding a little to the glory 
and luster of the order, he will be satisfied. In the his- 
tory it will be found that while he has made no di- 
rect quotations from the present authorized ritual, 
with one or two minor exceptions, he has quoted, 
sometimes quite copiously, from rituals that are now 
obsolete, but in doing so he has carefully avoided 
incorporating therein anything that might throw any 
light upon what is the real secret work of the order, 
and in this respect he believes his work will be found 
to compare favorably with the masonic encyclo- 
pedias. He has endeavored, at the same time, to 
convey to the enlightened reader as full knowledge 
of the subject in hand as was possible with these limi- 
tations. Many months of continuous labor have 
been bestowed upon it, and as he: indites these words 
as his task is drawing to a close, it is with the desire 
that his readers will consider how hard it is for one 
to write unbiasedly of his own times, and of events 
in which he has been an active participant, so that if 
the first person singular is sometimes singularly 
prominent, it is simply because a full recital of 
essential facts rendered it necessary, as he has no 
desire to use both ends of the trumpet of fame. He 
would be singularly remiss if he did not express his 
deep sense of obligation to the many brothers and 



PREFACE. 5 

sisters who have given him material assistance in se- 
curing information that has helped to make the 
work both valuable and interesting; and he would 
also give expression to his sense of obligation to those 
more numerous sisters and brothers who have so 
generously confided in his ability to create a work 
worthy of their encouragement, and have manifested 
that confidence by subscribing in advance of its pro- 
duction, and thus rendered its publication possible. 
He trusts that nonei of them will be disappointed in 
its perusal, and that they will by kindly words, en- 
courage others to purchase it, that he may receive at 
least some return for his months of labor. He will 
be grateful, also, to any one who may be able to add 
any facts concerning the order that will be of inter- 
est, thai can be used in a second edition of the work. 
He will always be glad to know of any copies of old 
rituals that can be purchased, and he will also* be 
pleased to supply to his fellow Eastern Star biblio- 
maniacs copies of any rituals of which he may have 
duplicates. 

It will be noticed that in this work the Eastern 
Star degrees are sometimes spoken of in the singular, 
and sometimes in the plural. This will be under- 
stood when it is stated that when the secrets were 
given by communication the singular number was 
used in the early days, but when given in constel- 
lations or chapters, they were spoken of in the plural, 
and I have followed this custom. 

WILLIS D. ENGLE. 

Indianapolis, Ind., February 9, 1901. 



BON VOYAGE. 



Go, " History of the Eastern Star," 
Where e'er its wandering children are ; 
Recall to those who hailed its birth 
Their toilsome struggle 'mid the dearth 
Of cheering words, or sunny ways ; 
And tell to those of later days 
How great the triumph it has met — 
Lest they forget— lest they forget. 

Go gladly forth, and may thy pages 
Suffice to keep for future ages 
The record of the care and strength 
Which nursed and fostered, till at length 
The Order of the Eastern Star 
Is known and loved the world afar. 
With naught set down in malice vile, 
E'en unkind facts wear friendship's smile, 
For, though our order had its battle, 
It's grown above war's din and rattle, 
And charity's broad mantle red 
Is cast about those days, instead. 

To those who labored, loved, and— fought, 

The guerdon was not dearly bought, 

For our great order moves to-day 

Untrammelled in its upward way. 

To those who helped with heart and hand 

To make this true ; that knightly band ; 

Those women brave ; we ask the fame 

Too often grudged each early name. 

No easy task for woman lone 

To stand as target ; many a stone 

Was hurled 'gainst such whose word and deed 

Helped in our order's hour of need. 

They're now forgotten, yet that honr 

Gave birth to all its present power. 

Now, in these days of proud progress, 
Forget not those of storm and stress, 
Encourage the same zeal and truth 
Which marked our order in its youth, 
And let the future years reveal 
The same desire for its best weal ; 
Then shall its record grow and blaze 
With the refulgence of its rays, 
Till earth, illumined, near and far 
Reflects the light of Bethlehem's star ! 

— Addie C. Strong Engle. 



(6) 



PART ONE. 



EMBRACING A FULL ACCOUNT OF ALL RITUALS 
PRINTED FOR THE USE OF THE ORDER SINCE 
ITS INCEPTION, WITH A SYSTEMATIC PRESEN- 
TATION AND COMPARISON OF ITS SYMBOLIC 
AND EMBLEMATIC TEACHINGS; A HISTORY OF 
ITS GOVERNING BODIES, TOGETHER WITH ITS 
LAWS AND CUSTOMS. CONTAINING, ALSO, FULL 
NOTICES OF ALL SIDE DEGREES AND OTHER 
CEREMONIES PUBLISHED FOR THE USE OF THE 
ORDER, AND OF OTHER PERTINENT PUBLICA- 
TIONS. 



CHAPTEK I. 



THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 

A^N" organization would hardly be entitled to 
the designation masonic whose origin was not 
shrouded in mystery, and in this respect the Order 
of the Eastern Star is the peer of any of the branches 
of masonry. We know that androgynous masonry 
(so named from two Greek words signifying "man" 
and "woman,") was established in France in 1730, 
under the name of Adoptive Masonry, and that its 
lodges were called adoptive lodges. These flourished 
and gained steadily in both numbers and influence 
until, in 1774 the Grand Orient of France estab- 
lished the Rite of Adoption, and set forth rules and 
regulations for its government. Among other re- 
quirements was one that each lodge should be placed 
under the charge and held under the sanction and 
warrant of some regularly constituted masonic lodge, 
whose master, or his deputy should be the presiding of- 
ficer, assisted by a woman president or mistress. "We 
are unable to learn whether the ritual used from 1730 
was continued in use, or a new one adopted. It is 
probable that the earlier ritual at least furnished the 
basis for the later work, which consisted of four de- 
grees, viz.: 

* The first, or apprentice degree was introductory 
in its character, in which the candidate was pre- 
pared to appreciate the emblematic lessons inculcated 
in the degrees that were to follow. 

The second, or companion degree represented 
emblematically, in its ceremony of initiation, the 

(9) 



10 THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 

temptation in Eden, and, in the lecture, or cate- 
chism (of which there was one to each degree), 
the candidate was reminded of the. unhappy results 
of woman's first sin, culminating in the universal 
deluge. 

The third, or mistress degree was based upon the 
legend of the building of Babel's tower, the confusion 
of tongues, and the dispersion of the human race. 
This was made to symbolize a badly regulated lodge, 
in which disorder and confusion reigned, while the 
ladder of Jacob was introduced to represent the vari- 
ous virtues which a mason should possess, and the 
concord and obedience that should exist in a well 
regulated lodge. 

The fourth, or perfect mistress degree was founded 
upon the passage of the children of Israel through 
the wilderness, which was made to symbolize the 
passage of men and women through this to another 
and better world, and the officers represented Moses, 
Aaron, and other characters in that history. 
• There is no evidence, so far as known, that the 
French rite ever obtained in this country. A French 
edition of its ritual, under the title "La Yraire 
Maconnerie D'Adoption," (144 pp.) was printed in 
Philadelphia in 1768; a Spanish translation was 
printed in Havana in 1822, and, about 1874, Albert 
Pike published an English translation of it, revised 
and amplified, but efforts to establish lodges proved 
entire failures, the ritual being altogether too 
lengthy and sombrous to command success. 

But side degrees to be conferred upon women in 
an informal manner, in the form of lectures, seemed 
to be in demand, and the demand was supplied. 
Under the title of "Ladies's Masonry," William 
Leigh, Past Grand Master of Alabama, in 1851 set 
forth the degree of the "Holy Virgin," and the de- 



THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 11 

gree of the "Heroine of Jericho." In 1866, under 
the title of the "Ladies' Friend/' G. W. Brown, of 
Michigan, published the "Eastern Star," "Mason's 
Daughter," "Kindred Degree," "Good Samaritan," 
and "'Heroines of Jericho." Other degrees bore the 
titles of "Ark and Dove." "Maids of Jerusalem," 
"Sweet Brier," "Daughter of Zion," "Daughters of 
Zelophadad," "Daughters of Bethlehem," "Cross and 
Crown," and "Lady of the Cross." Of the origin of 
these degrees; little is known. The Heroines of Jeri- 
cho is said to be the oldest of them all, and to have 
been the production of David Vinton, of Rhode Is- 
land. While these other degrees are somewhat an- 
alagous to the Eastern Star, it is not the design of 
the writer to attempt to set forth their various pecul- 
iarities, but to> confine his history to the Eastern Star. 
If confidence could be placed in certain statements 
of Rob Morris, whose labors in bringing the order 
into prominence exceed those of any other person, 
we could easily ascertain the truth as to its origin. 
But these statements are made without corroborative 
proof, and have been contradicted by the brother him- 
self. In A Monument of Gratitude (1884), brother 
Morris said : 

Some writers have fallen into the error of placing 
the introduction of the) Eastern Star as far back as 
1775, and this they gather from my work, "Lights 
and Shadows of Freemasonry," published in 1852. 
What I intended to say in that book was, that the 
Erench officers introduced adoptive masonry into the 
colonies in 1775, but nothing like the degree called 
the Eastern Star, which is strictly my own origination. 
By the aid of my papers, and the memory of Mrs. 
Morris, I recall even the trivial occurrences connected 
with the work, how I hesitated for a theme, how I 
dallied over a name, how I wrought face to face with 
the ^ clock that I might keep my drama within due 
limits of time, etc. The name was first settled upon, 



12 THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 

the Eastern Star. Next the number of points, five, 
to correspond with the emblem on the masters' car- 
pet. This is the pentagon, "the signet of king Solo- 
mon/ 7 and eminently proper to adoptive masonry. 

What brother Morris did say in "Lights and Shad- 
ows," was in part as follows: 

The five androgynous degrees, combined under the 
above title (The Eastern Star Degrees), are supposed 
to have been introduced into this country by the 
French, officers who assisted our government during 
the struggle for liberty. The titles, Jephthah's Daugh- 
ter, Kuth, Esther, Martha, and Electa, sufficiently 
denote the histories comprehended in the degrees. 
•* * * rpj ie following extracts from the pub- 
lished ritual, translated into English, are in point: 
"The Sisterhood of the Eastern Star is manifest to 
the world by its adoring virtues — five. Honor in 
bright loneliness is the sanctity and moral guarantee 
of all the obligations of the Eastern Star. This is 
read by the enlightened in the cabalistic motto of the 
order. Upon that foundation (honor) stands the 
following pillars: — to be true; to be aiding; to be 
counseling; to be loving; to be secret; to be 
the servant of Jesus Christ. Sweet in its fragrance 
is the memory of the worthy dead. It conies up 
from the recollection of happy hours passed 
in their companionship; it comes doicn in faith's joy- 
ful anticipations of reunion in the home of the 
Saviour. The members of the Eastern Star will fol- 
low to the grave's brink the forms of those who 
have preceded them to a world of glory." * * * 
The following verses are offered by the writer as an 
humble testimonial of gratitude to those who kindly 
instructed him in the mysteries of these beautiful de- 
grees. 

Whether this can be explained as meaning what 
brother Morris said he intended to say I leave to my 
readers to judge. It will be noted that he makes an 
extract, translated into English, from a ritual, 
which was, presumably from his previous statement, 



THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 13 

in the French language, and it is certain that the quo- 
tation is not embodied in any ritual now known to ex- 
ist, except that in the Thesauros there appears to be a 
reference to, and amplification of a portion of it. 
In an open letter, elated Lagrange, Ky., October 2, 
1877, brother Morris said: 

I am justified in speaking on this subject. I wrote 
every word of the original lectures, and composed the 
songs. For twenty-eight years I have been commu- 
nicating it as my own origination. I am the founder 
of the system, and no one can show any proofs of its 
existence prior to 1849. 

And yet brother Morris, in the Voice of Masonry, 
May, 1862, said: 

My first regular course of lectures was given in 
November, 1850, at Colli ersville, Tennessee. * * 
At Colliersville, likewise, I conferred the degrees of 
the Eastern Star and Good Samaritan. Both of 
these I had received some years before, the latter by 
brother Stevens, the same who presided at my passing 
and raising. The restrictions under which the East- 
ern Star was communicated to me were "that it 
should only be given to master masons, their wives, 
widows, sisters and daughters, and only when irve or 
more ladies of the classes named were present;" 
these rules I have always adhered to. 

In the first ritual published under the auspices of 
brother Morris, The Mosaic Book, 1855, it is stated: 

In selecting some androgynous degree, extensively 
known, ancient in date, and ample in scope, for the 
basis of this rite, the choice falls, without controversy, 
upon the Eastern Star. For this is a degree, familiar 
to thousands of the most enlightened York masons and 
their female relatives; established in this country at 
least before 1778; and one which popularly bears the 
palm in point of doctrine and elegance over all 
others. Its scope, by the addition of a ceremonial and 
a few links in the chain of recognition, was broad 
enough to constitute a graceful and consistent system, 



14 THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 

worthy, it is believed, of the best intellect of either 
sex. 

In the Macoy Manual, 1866, it is stated that "the 
Order of the Eastern Star was established in this coun- 
try during the year 1778," and this statement is re- 
peated in Adoptive Kite, 186S, but in the Macoy 
Eitual, 1876, it is changed to read: "during the year 
1850." In Adoptive Rite appears the following 
note: "A. O., Anno Ordinis — Year of the Order. 
To find this date subtract 1778 from the present 
year." 

In "The Adopted Mason, the organ of the Ameri- 
can Adoptive Rite," (August, 1855,) of which brother 
Morris was M. E. Grand Luminary, it is stated: 

We seek to effect our purpose by adapting an 
ancient system to a modern use. The degree upon 
which the American Adoptive Rite is built is very 
ancient, more so by far than any other, save the York 
Rite, and one that carries on its very face indubitable 
marks of antiquity. It exhibits all the furrows of age. 
Its voice, solemn and impressive, conies up like the 
deep tones of the veteran, who, from the treasures 
of four score, enriches the lap of youth. 

In the Adopted Mason of January, 1856, it is 
stated : 

The Heroine of Jericho, which is so strangely made 
a standard of adoption, is in itself the offspring of 
the present century, and one of the youngest of the 
androgynous degrees; while the five degrees of the 
Eastern Star, the basis of the American Adoptive 
Rite, exhibit internal evidences of great age, and they 
were always considered the property of master ma- 
sons, their wives, sisters and daughters. 

The fact is that brother Morris received the East- 
ern Star degree at the hands of Giles M. Hillyer, of 
Vicksburg, Mississippi, about 18-19. 

While recognizing the abilities and labors of 



THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 15 

brother Morris in the various branches of masonry 
and more particularly in the Eastern Star, and his 
many noble qualities, it must be acknowledged that, 
as to the history of the order his evidence is too con- 
flicting to be accepted as conclusive, and we must 
turn to other sources of information, although they 
may prove equally unsatisfactory. 

If we could accept it for what it at first appears to 
be, "The Thesauros of the Ancient and Honorable 
Order of the Eastern Star as collected and arranged 
by the committee, and adopted by the Supreme Coun- 
cil in convocation, assembled May, 1793," an octavo 
pamphlet of eighteen pages, the property of brother 
Alonzo J. Burton, Past Grand Lecturer of ISFew 
York, and the author of the Eloral Work, which pur- 
ports to have been "Printed for the use of the fourth 
division U. S. By order of the G. L. 1850," we 
would have conclusive evidence of the existence of 
the order in this country in the eighteenth century. 
The writer regrets that he has been unable to ob- 
tain a sight of this pamphlet, although he has 
offered to make the trip from Indianapolis to New 
York for the purpose of doing so, as, having seen it, 
he would be enabled to give affirmative testimony. A 
reprint, no matter how carefully made, does not 
enable even an expert to judge of its age or authen- 
ticity. The style of type; quality and finish of the 
paper; the manner of binding; the arrangement of 
matter on the pages; the spelling of words; and many 
other things would reveal, to one experienced in that 
line, many points that another, not up in such mat- 
ters, might overlook. However, brother Burton has 
kindly furnished him a carefully edited reprint of it. 
Of it, he says: "I copied the work myself, not omit- 
ting a single word, nor even a punctuation mark." 
It purports to be the fifth edition of the work, the first 



16 



THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 



s- 



printed in 1793, the third in 1819, the fourth in 
1845, and the fifth in 1847. This pamphlet was 
purchased at a sale by Barker, 63 Bleeker street, 
New York, November 18, 1896, and the writer freely 
admits that he knows of no motive that would induce 
its publication for the purpose of deception merely, 
and there are some internal evidences that would 
indicate that it may be authentic, e. g.: It 
will be noted that on the seal of the Supreme 
Constellation and on the Morris signet (vide 

illustration, 
facing title), 
there^ are em- 
blems between 
the points of 
the star, but 
these emblems 
are not in any 
way referred 
to in any other 
ritual of the 
order extant, 
except that in 
the Book of Instructions, IS 61, the apron, 
gloves, and collar are mentioned as proper regalia 
to be worn by each lady. Each point of the 
star in the seal and signet referred to also contains a 
five pointed star to which no reference is made in any 
other ritual, while in the Thesauros the stars are each 
referred to as representing something, and each of the 
irve classes of regalia has a significance. In the sig- 
net the name in the first point is given as Jephthah's 
Daughter, as in the Thesauros, although in all the 
]\ [orris rituals it is given as Adah. These variations 
between the seal and signet and his rituals would 
seem to indicate that brother Morris, in revising the 




THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 17 

older ritual omitted some of the emblematical teach- 
ings, but did not omit the emblems from the seal 
and signet. 

On the other hand there are several things that 
would throw doubt upon the authenticity of the 
Thesauros, e. g. : In it, extracts from the prefaces 
to the first and third editions are inserted in the fifth. 
The first is dated Boston, Mass., May 17, 1793, and is 
signed by John Mayhew, L. K. C. Jones, and Robert 
Lennox, and attested by James S. Morton, S. C, as 
"Unanimously adopted by the Supreme Council in 
session, at Boston, May 18, 1793. " A thorough exam- 
ination of the Boston newspapers of the time fails to 
disclose any reference to such a meeting; the city 
directory of the city of Boston of that year does not 
show any of the persons whose names are given; and 
the records of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts do 
not contain any of the names among the list of mem- 
bers of the lodges in that jurisdiction. 

The legal money in the United States in 1793 was 
the present decimal system, but the "money of ac- 
counts" was in a transition state, the papers of the day 
giving quotations sometimes in decimal, and some- 
times in sterling, money. In the Thesauros it is pro- 
vided "The membership fee shall not exceed ten nor 
be less than two shillings sterling." Is it supposable 
that a national body, meeting at a time when, to say 
the least, sterling money was passing into disuse, 
would have established the fee in that money, rather 
than in the decimal, which was the legal money, and 
which its members must have known, would come into 
exclusive use very soon? In the Thesauros it is also 
stated: 

The Districts according to the distribution of 1845 
was as follows: District 1, New England and New 
York; District 2, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Dela- 



18 THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 

ware, Maryland, Virginia; District 3, Ohio, Iowa, 
Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi; District 
4, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Ala- 
bama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina. The 
several Territories to accompany the States to which 
they are contiguous. 

"Whatever excuse there may have been for such a 
provision in 1793, it could certainly not have existed 
when the fifth edition was endorsed in 1847, "for the 
use of the fourth division U. S." in a large propor- 
tion of which territory sterling money had never been 
used. 

The preface to the fifth edition is dated New York, 
Dec. 12, 1847, and is signed "IT. IT. Sandifer, Secre- 
tary." December 12, 1847 was Sunday, and neither 
the city directories of New York from 1840 to 1850, 
nor the records of the Grand Lodge of New York for 
the same period display the name of H. H. Sandifer. 
The genealogical records in the libraries of Indian- 
apolis and Chicago have been searched, but, although 
members of the Jones, Lennox, Morton, and other 
families named, have been discovered, no trace has 
been found of those whose names appear. The city 
directories of the forty principal cities in the country 
have been searched, but in only two of them, Indian- 
apolis and Denver, does the name of Sandifer appear, 
and investigation has discovered that they are either 
colored people or Carolinians, with no knowledge of 
an Eastern branch of the family. 

As to the orthography of such words as honor, hon- 
orable, Saviour, and labor, in the reprint they are all 
spelled without a "u". I regret that inquiry of 
brother Burton upon this point has elicited no infor- 
mation other than that the reprint is an accurate repro- 
duction of the original, for, if the "u" is omitted it 
would be strong evidence that the pamphlet was not 
printed as early as it purports to have been. 



THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 19 

The adoption of the Thesauros in 1793 is attested 
by James S. Morton, S. C, while the regulations pro- 
vided for no such officer, the chief being Grand Lumi- 
nary, and the letters S. C. are specifically interpreted 
therein as standing for Supreme Council. 

According to the Thesauros the Supreme Council 
consisted of "a great luminary and fouir deputy lumi- 
naries," while the committee that reported the The- 
sauros was composed of three members, who reported 
to themselves and two others! 

The title page says "Copyright secured," without 
giving date of same, or stating by whom copyrighted, 
although the law of congress required that both 
should be given, and the universal form found in all 
copyrighted books before the revision of the law, 
about 1870, was "Entered according to the act of 

Congress, in the district court for the district of 

, by , 18 — ." I am assured by Thorvald Sol- 
berg, Register of Copyrights: "The record of copy- 
rights in the district of Massachusetts for 1793 does 
not contain any entry of Thesauios of the ancient 
honorable Order of the Eastern Star," and that "The 
indices of the copyright records of the Southern dis- 
trict of New York do not show any entry of the book 
either in 1847 or 1850." 

All the facts obtainable that would throw any light 
upon the Thesauros have been set forth, and the 
reader will have to judge for himself as to what 
weight is to be given to it. Authentic or not, it is an 
interesting document, and in this history it will be 
further referred to. 

After reviewing all the facts it must be concluded 
that brother Morris did not originate the ritual of the 
order, but that, receiving the degrees by communica- 
tion, as above stated, and taking the ritual as used be- 
fore he took up the occupation of a masonic lecturer, 



20 THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 

lie embellished and adorned it, and started the order 
toward systematic organization. Certainly, as it at 
present exists in this country, brother Morris was the 
master builder. 

S. Baring Gould has written a very interesting vol- 
ume on the myths of the middle ages, but the myths 
of masonry are still awaiting the touch of a master 
hand. The paper, "The Eastern Star," in its issue for 
December, 1900, had a communication signeld "A 
Sister," wherein it was stated: 

Order of the Eastern Star, the English name given 
to adoptive masonry in England and this country, 
was introduced into this country in 1780. George 
Washington and Lafayette constituted the first chap- 
ter. The ritual was, however, so dramatic, and re- 
quired such gorgeous robes, that it gradually lost its 
hold upon the people until our late brother, Robert 
Morris, revised the ritual, re-instituting the: order, 
bringing it to a point of perfection unknown in the 
past. 

While the writer could hardly credit the statement 
that Washington and Lafayette had found time and 
opportunity, in 1780, even if they had the disposition, 
to introduce the English rite of adoption, he could 
not let such a positive statement go without investi- 
gation, in consequence of which the publication of 
his history had been delayed a month. Through the 
courtesy of sister Ransford, the editor of The Eastern 
Star, he was furnished the address of "A Sister," who 
kindly responded to his inquiries, and referred him to 
a "Dictionary of Masonic Lore," in the masonic li- 
brary at Colorado Springs, Colorado, for confirmation 
of her assertions; but investigation failed to discover 
a masonic library in that city, or any one there who 
had knowledge of such a book; nor could any trace 
of it be found by inquiry of the most noted masonic 
librarians in the country. His inquiries of the brother 



THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 21 

who loaned the sister the publication brought the in- 
formation that it was loaned to an unknown party, and 
could not be found, and it has not been thought 
best to delay the publication of this history 
for further chasing of this Ignis fatuus. Should it 
prove anything more substantial, the writer will be 
glad and surprised. 

Lafayette, the bearer of information of the most 
momentous character to Washington, from France, 
arrived at Washington's headquarters, May 10, 1780, 
and remained four days, going from thence to Phila- 
delphia, to communicate with congress, returning to 
Morristown, May 31, where he remained until July 
22. During this time, we are told that the Conti- 
nental army was in a most terrible! condition, and 
suffering every privation, going often five or six days 
without bread, and two or three days without either 
bread or meat, Washington saying that the men had 
eaten every kind of horse feed except hay. August 
7, Lafayette returned to the army, and occupied him- 
self in organizing and equipping a battalion of light 
infantry with which he led the advance guard of the 
army. September 6, he participated in a council of 
general officers, and on the 18th went with Washing- 
ton to Hartford for a conference of war; on the 25th, 
the knowledge of Arnold's treason burst upon them, 
and on the 29 th Lafayette! sat as a member of the 
court martial that condemned Andre. He was busy 
with military plans and operations until the army 
went into winter quarters in November, when he ob- 
tained leave of absence, went to Philadelphia, and re- 
mained away the balance of the year. During all this 
time Washington was carrying a burden of respon- 
sibility such as few men have ever borne, and was 
sleeplessly vigilant in his efforts to continue Clinton 
cooped up in New York. Can we believe that in the 



22 THE ORIGIN OF THE ORDER. 

busy weeks when Lafayette was with the army these 
two men organized an Eastern Star chapter "with 
gorgeous robes," when the army was going half-clad 
in rags? The investigation thus far made only con- 
firms me in the assertion made when penning 
the first paragraph of this chapter, months ago,, 
that the Eastern Star is the peer of any masonic or- 
ganization in the mystery surrounding its origin. 



CHAPTER II. 



SUPREME BODIES. 

SUPREME COUNCIL No. 3. 

ACCORDING to the Thesauros, the entire gov- 
ernment of the order was vested in the Su- 
preme Council, which consisted of five persons "hold- 
ing their stations during good behavior.' 7 It was to 
meet "quintennially at such times and places as may- 
be previously designated." Through its deputy lumi- 
nary it granted authority to confer the degrees, and 
provided that five or more worthy sisters might pe- 
tition for a charter in the manner following : 

To 'the D. L. of District: 

We the undersigned members of the Ancient and 
Honorable Order of the Eastern Star, have seen the 
rays ^ve y and are enlightened by the glory thereof . 
They have advocated the claims of the Order in pub- 
lic and in private; yielded their first fruits to charity, 
according to the commandment; and now that they 
may gain increased ability for the good work of the 
Order, do offer this petition, that a charter may be is- 
sued, enabling them to unite their rays into a Constel- 
lation, to be entitled the Constellation, No. — 

State of . They promise obedience to the 

Constitutional requirements of the Order and to 
frame their By-Laws in accordance with the Ancient 
Constitution. The f ollowing officers to hold their sta- 
tions until others are elected according to the Consti- 
tution and By-Laws, to^wit: S. P.; Y. P.; R. B. ; R. 
O.; R. W. 

Dated at the day A. D. 

A, B, 
C, D, &c. 
Vouched for by K R., A. D. L. 

(23) 



24 SUPREME BODIES. 

It was further provided that upon the receipt of 
the above petition "a charter will be issued under 
the great seal of the Supreme Council, countersigned 
by the deputy luminary in the form and style follow- 
ing, to-wit: 

"Light is sorrow for the righteous, and gladness 
for the upright in heart." 

To all to whom these presents shall come, the Su- 
preme Council of the Ancient and Honorable Order 
of the Eastern Star sendeth light, peace and love. 
Know ye, that on the petition of the worthy Sisters 
A, B, C, D, &c, resident at F, and on the avouching 

of Brother Gr. EL, acting D. L. of District, 

who guarantees the illumination and the worthiness 
of the petitioners, the S. C. has granted and by these 
presents doth grant to the sisters aforesaid this Char- 
ter, authorizing them to form a Constellation of the 
Eastern Star at or near the town of E, to be opened 
by any A. D. L., duly authorized and to be governed 
by the following officers until others are regularly 
elected, to-wit: S. P.; V. P.; E. B.; R. O.; K. W.; 
R. G. ; R. R. ; T. ; S. And we further ordain and de- 
clare that this Constellation shall be known and held 
as Constellation No. of the State of . 

Hereby authorizing the Sisters aforesaid, in the ca- 
pacity of a Constellation, to elect members; enact By- 
Laws subordinate to the Ancient Constitution of the 
Order; to suspend or expel unworthy members; and 
do such other acts and things as tend to the good of 
Order and the interests of the religion of Christ. 
They to be obedient to rule; attached, the one to the 
other ; pure in heart and life ; faithful to Him whose 
Star in the East they have beheld; and hospitable to 
all who love the truth; and so conducting, this Char- 
ter to them and their successors is perpetual. 

Signed at the seat of light and authority, to-wit: 

the — day of A. D. 

G. L. 

[Locus Sigillum.] D. L. 

District U. S. 



SUPREME BODIES. 25 

SUPREME CONSTELLATION. 

In 1855, Rob Morris inaugurated a Supreme Con- 
stellation, claiming that "no such attempt upon a na- 
tional basis has heretofore been made in America." 
The Mosaic Book stated that 

The Supreme Constellation was, at the organiza- 
tion of the rite, a self-assumed body, and will so con- 
tinue during a period sufncently protracted to test the 
merits of the American Adoptive rite, and afford ex- 
perience as a basis of its improvement. The consti- 
tution and edicts of this body constitute the supreme 
law of the order, both to individual members and to 
constellations; and its acts will establish precedents 
for the parliamentary usages, &c, of the order. 

Of this body Rob Morris was Most Enlightened 
Grand Luminary; Joel M. Spiller, Delphi, Indiana, 
Right Enlightened Deputy Grand Luminary and 
Grand Lecturer, Jonathan R. Neill, New York, Yery 
Enlightened Grand Treasurer; John "VY. Leonard, 
New York, Yery Enlightened Grand Secretary; and 
Yery Enlightened Deputy Grand Luminaries were 
appointed as follows: 

New Jersey, and pro tern for New England — 
James B. Taylor, Newark. 

New York — Thomas C. Edwards, Elmira. 

Indiana — Joel M. Spiller, Delphi. 

Iowa — L. D. Parmer, Muscatine. 

Kentucky — John Scott, Flemingsburg. 

Georgia — M. B. Eranklin, Atlanta. 

Missouri — M. J. E. Leonard, at large. 

Right Eminent Deputy Grand Luminaries were 
also named: 

Illinois, Fourth district — Harmon G. Reynolds, 
Knoxville. 

Kentucky — James G. Gorsuch, Portland; "W. C. 
Munger, Covington. 



26 SUPREME BODIES. 

The form of petition for a charter, to be signed by 
at least five master masons, was as follows: 

To the M. E. Grand Luminary of the Supreme Con- 
stellation of the American Adoptive Kite: 
We, the undersigned, affiliated master masons, mem- 
bers in good standing of the lodge whose title is af- 
fixed to our names, being desirous of associating our- 
selves with a constellation of the American Adoptive 
Rite, do pray your Most Eminent body to grant us a 

charter for that purpose, under the title of 

Constellation No. — to be holden at . We 

pledge our masonic faith, if the prayer of our petition 
is granted, to submit to the requirements of the Su- 
preme Constellation in all things relative to this rite ; 
and should the constellation herein prayed for fail to 
be organized, or at any time hereafter be dissolved, we 
will return the charter and hue books to the Y. E. 
Grand Secretary. 

The charter, which, together with five hue books, 
cost ten dollars, was lithographed in colors in the high- 
est style of the art then known, by Sarony & Co., of 
JSTew York, and is herein reproduced in fac simile. 
The significance of the emblems in the border will be 
found explained under the head: "The Mosaic Book." 

The body of it reads as follows : 

"We have seen His Star in the East and are come 
to worship." 

In the name and by the authority of the Su- 
preme Constellation of the American Adoptive 
Rite. 

To all to whom these presents may come and espe- 
cially to our well beloved and enlightened Stellse and 
Protectors everywhere. 

Greeting. 

Whereas a petition has been presented to our M. E. 
Grand Luminary of the American Adoptive Rite by 

affiliated 

Master Masons and Members in good standing in their 
respective Lodges residing at or near the town of 
, praying that they may be authorized to 



SUPREME BODIES. 27 

organize and work as a Constellation of the American 
Adoptive Rite, nnder the title of Constella- 
tion ~No. and it appearing for the interest of Adop- 
tive Masonry that their petition should be granted 
now 

Know Ye that We the Supreme Constellation of 
the American Adoptive Rite invested with full power 
and authority over all Stellse and Protectors and the 
Supreme Court of Appeal in all cases relative to adop- 
tion, do hereby authorize and empower our well be- 
loved and enlightened Pillars — Heleon ; 

Philomath; Verger; 

• Herald; and Warder; 

to open and hold a Constellation by the name of 

Constellation No. — the said Constellation 

to be holden at or within five miles of the 

same. And we do likewise authorize our said Pillars 
to associate with them in the work and discipline of 
Adoption in said Constellation the following Corre- 
spondents toi-wit : 

Luna Plora 

Hebe Thetis 

and Areme. And we do further au- 
thorize and empower our said Pillars to confer the five 
degrees of the American Adoptive Rite, according 
to the ceremonial and lectures approved by the Su- 
preme Constellation, upon all worthy applicants pos- 
sessing the constitutional qualifications for the same. 
And we do further authorize and empower our said 
Pillars, and their legal successors in office, to hear all 
and singular matters and things relative to the Ameri- 
can Adoptive Rite, within the jurisdiction of said 
Constellation. 

And lastly we do further authorize, empower, and 
direct our said well beloved and enlightened Pillars, 
to elect and reject applicants at their discretion; to 
elect and instruct their successors in office subject to 
our approval and confirmation; and to perform all 
matters and things pertaining to and provided in the 
American Adoptive Rite. 

Provided always that the above named Pillars and 
their successors ; do pay and cause to be paid, due re- 
spect and obedience to the M. E. Supreme Constel- 



28 SUPREME BODIES. 

lation of the American Adoptive Rite, and to the by- 
laws, rules, regulations and edicts, thereof, otherwise 
this Charter to be of no force or virtue. 

Given under the hands of our Grand 
Officers and the seal of our Supreme Con- 
stellation at the City of this 

day of Anno Domini 18 — 

Grand Luminary 

Grand Secretary 

A constellation was composed of five: or more of 
each sex, but no more than twenty-five of each sex, in 
addition to the Pillars and Correspondents, could be 
members of the same constellation at the same time, 
but two or more constellations could be connected 
with the same lodge. Vigorous work was done in dis- 
posing of charters, so that by December 25, 1855, 
seventy-five had been granted, as follows : 

Alabama — Venus No. 11, New Market. 

Arkansas; — Evening Star No. 16, Morristown. 

California — Morning Star No. 44, Grass Valley; 
Orion No. 57, Mariposa. 

Connecticut — Morning Star No. 48, Fair Haven. 

Florida— Electa No. 11, Tallahassee ; Elora No. 21, 
Uchee Anna. 

Georgia — Virgo No. 4, Woodstock; Magnolia No. 
5, Iiillsboro; Rose No. 39, Whitesville; Electa No. 
58, Cedartown. 

Indiana — White Rose No. 3, Crown Point; Jessa- 
mine No. 8, Moore's Hill; Cassiopeia No. 28, Cam- 
bridge City; North Salem No. 36, North Salem; 
New Albany No. 160, New Albany; Newman No. 
161, Milton. 

Illinois — Griggs ville No. 10, Griggsville; Orion 
No. 15, Sycamore; Elora No. 18, Pecatonica; Pitts- 
field No. 56, Pittsfield; Friendship No. 65, Knoxville; 
Rose of Sharon No. 67, Tipton. 







CONSTELLATION CHARTER. 



SUPREME BODIES. 29 

Iowa — Electa Morris No. 66, Muscatine; Violet 
No. 68, Iowa City. 

Kentucky — Purity No, 1, Lodge; Vesta USTo. 7, 
Burlington; Covington No. 60, Covington. 

Louisiana — Cassiopeia No. 32, Lisbon. 

Maine — Moriah No. 19, Denmark; Corona No. 22, 
Waterville. 

Michigan — Buchanan No. 20, Buchanan; Western 
Star No. 61, Litchfield. 

Missouri — Flora No. 13, New Madrid; Hesperus 
No. 17, Charlestown; Lyra No. 24, Arcadia; Morn- 
ing Star No. 25, Caledonia; Cassiopeia No. 26, Po- 
tosi; Eastern Star No. 30, Frederickstown ; Evening 
Star No. 31, Franklin; Western Star No. 33, Pauld- 
ingville; Prudence No. 34, Marthasville ; Pleiades 
No. 37, Mexico; Mary Washington No. 38, Florida; 
Martha No. 40, Madison; Kobert Burns No. 42, Ful- 
ton; Astrea No. 43, Fayette; Bob Morris No. 45, 
Spring Hill; Esther No. 46, Pattonburg; Kuth No. 
47, Gallatin; Nannie No. 49, Windsor City; Mary 
Anna No. 50, Boanoke; Mary Washington No. 52, 
Haynesville; Martha Washington No. 54, Bichmond; 
Bose No. 59, Clinton; Louisa No. 162, Dekalb; Lu- 
cinda No. 164, Bidgeley; Hebe No. 167, Bochester; 
Lafayette No. 168, Palmyra; Hannah No. 169, Tren- 
ton. 

Mississippi — Concordia No. 6, Tallaloosa; Bipley 
No. 41, Bipley; Hebron No. 55, Hebron. 

New York — Orion No. 9, Evans; Purity No. 27, 
Spencer; Speedsville No. 29, Speedsville. 
. North Carolina — Hookerton No. 63, Hookerton. 

Pennsylvania — Towanda No. 166, Towanda. 

Texas — Lavacia No. 23, Hallettsville ; Lily No. 35, 
Sabine Pass; Pleiades No. 51, Texana; Mount Horeb 
No. 165, Gabriel Mills. 

Vermont — Irene No. 53, Swanton Falls. 



30 SUPREME BODIES. 

Wisconsin — Lake Mills No. 171, Lake Mills. 

Some time in 1857, James B. Taylor succeeded to 
the office of V. E. Grand Secretary; and, in all, nearly 
three hundred constellations were organized, the rec- 
ords of which are not at hand, but they included in 
addition to those named above: 

Mendias No. 1, Wyandotte, Kansas, July 28, 1856; 
Alpha No. 1, New Haven, Connecticut, chartered 
January 17, 1857, organized March 9; Acacia, Clif- 
ton, Tennessee; Decatur, Indiana, 1866; Stevenson, 
Alabama. 

SUPREME COUNCIL No. 2. 

It was claimed by the members of the Supreme 
Constellation that brother Morris pledged himself to 
desist conferring the Eastern Star degree, except in 
constellations, but that within two weeks after mak- 
ing this pledge he issued a circular, which he sent 
over the country, offering to forward to any master 
mason in good standing, the necessary information to 
enable him to confer the degree, upon his remitting 
to him a fee of three dollars, and that the Supreme 
Constellation, on discovering what it deemed to be a 
lack of good faith on the part of the M. E. Grand 
Luminary, repudiated him, and attempted a reorgani- 
zation under the name of Supreme Council of the An- 
cient Rite of Adoptive Masonry for North America, 
and adopted rituals adapted from an European sys- 
tem, in which there were two branches, consisting of 
constellations and temples of enlightenment. In jus- 
tice to brother Morris it should be mentioned that the 
Mosaic Book, which was the ritual of the Supreme 
Constellation, specifically stated that "the inherent 
right which master masons possessed, to communi- 
cate the degree remains forever unchanged, nor does 
the Supreme Constellation presume to interfere with 
it." Of the Supreme Council, James B. Taylor be- 



SUPREME BODIES. 31 

came Grand Secretary. If the Supreme Constella- 
tion was a self -perpetuating body, the Supreme Coun- 
cil was more. 'Not only was it self -perpetuating, but 
its membership was unknown to any but the chosen 
few, and all communication with it had to be through 
the Grand Secretary, who would not even disclose the 
number and location of its subordinate bodies. Al- 
though it attempted to maintain an existence as late 
as 1876, it is not believed that it really had any sub- 
stantial being. 

EASTERN STAR FAMILIES. 

Upon the disruption of the Supreme Constellation 
the records and seal remained in the hands of the for- 
mer V. E. Grand Secretary, but the supply of very 
elaborately lithographed charters was in the posses- 
sion of brother Morris, who, in 1860, set about or- 
ganizing families of the Eastern Star, issuing to them 
charters of the old form, the reason for which he 
gave as follows: 

The use of the old form of charter is continued al- 
though the association governed by the Supreme Con- 
stellation has ceased to exist. This is done to show 
that the two systems of "constellations" and "fami- 
lies" are identical in spirit, the latter having taken the 
place of the former. It serves further to show that 
the thousands of ladies who were introduced to the 
advantage of adoptive masonry under the former sys- 
tem retain their privileges under the latter. 

In the family, under this charter, Helion was Pa- 
tron; Philomath, Conductor; Verger, Treasurer; 
Herald, Recorder ; Warder, Watchman ; Luna, Patron- 
ess ; Flora, Conductress. Under this system, if it can 
l>e called a system, the charter was signed by Hob 
Morris as M. E. Grand Luminary, and, concerning 
the signature of the V. E. Grand Secretary it was 
stated: 

The Recorder of the family is authorized to sign 



32 SUPREME BODIES. 

his name as Grand Secretary at the bottom of the 
charter, adding "p. t." (pro tempore) to his signature. 

And it was required that 

The names of all ladies and gentlemen receiving 
the degree in the family * * must be entered on 
the records by the Recorder, and certified lists prompt- 
ly forwarded to the Grand Patron. 

From the above it will be seen that there was really 
no organization ; that the only head was brother Mor- 
ris ; and that there was little or no cohesiveness to the 
order. Something over one hundred families were 
organized between 1860 and 1867, but no complete 
record of them has been preserved, if one was ever 
made. 

I know of only the following: Rose of Sharon 
~No. 4, "held at T. B. Dunigan's House," Annapolis, 
Indiana, organized January 15, 1861; Plymouth, "No-. 
41, Plymouth, Indiana, organized June 25, 1864; 
Friendship No. 103, Brooklyn, ]STew York, organized 
January 25, 1866; Sunbeam 'No. 83, Mt. Vernon, In- 
diana, organized April 19, 1866; Miriam ISTo. Ill, 
Chicago, Illinois, organized October 6, 1866; Orion 
"No. 102, Rensselaer, Indiana, organized February 27, 
1867; and families of Davenport, Iowa, and Hazleton, 
Indiana, the numbers and dates of organization of 
which are unknown. The numbers, it will be seen, 
are no guide as to order of organization. 

SUPREME GRAND CHAPTER. 

In 1868, brother Morris resolved to devote the bal- 
ance of his life to masonic explorations in the holy 
land, and, as was claimed by Robert Macoy of New 
York, turned over to him the prerogatives he had as- 
sumed in the order. Previous to this, in 1866, brother 
Macoy had arranged a Manual of the Order of the 
Eastern Star, which was published by the Masonic 
Publishing and Manufacturing Company, and was 



SUPREME BODIES. 66 

not copyrighted; in this he styled himself "National- 
Grand Secretary." Brother Maeoy attempted to keep 
up the semblance of a supreme body, calling the same 
a Supreme Grand Chapter, of which he styled him- 
self, in the Adoptive Rite, copyrighted and published 
by the Masonic Publishing and Manufacturing Com- 
pany of New York, in which he was a partner, the 
"Grand Secretary." This title he retained in pub- 
lished rituals emanating from that company up to 
1876, when he assumed the title of "Supreme Grand 
Patron." 

Petitions for charters, as prescribed in Adoptive 
Rite, were addressed to the M. E. Grand Patron of 
the Supreme Grand Chapter of the Adoptive Eite of 
the Order of the Eastern Star, and the charters issued 
were in the following form: 

ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

"We have seen His Star in the East and are come 

to worship Him." 

To all to whom these presents may come — Greeting: 

In the Name and by the Authority of the Su- 
preme Grand Chapter of the Adoptive Rite, known 
by the distinctive title of the Order of the Eastern 
Star. Whereas, a petition has been presented to us by 
Sisters who having received, in a legal man- 
ner, all the degrees of the Order, and being the 
of master masons in good standing in their re- 
spective lodges, praying for a Warrant authorizing 
the*m to establish a Chapter of the Order of the East- 
ern Star, under .the title of Chapter No. — ■ 

to be held in County of State 

of and it appearing for the interest of the 

Adoptive Rite that their petition should be granted; 

Know ye, that we, the M. E. Grand Patron and 
Grand Secretary, by authority of the Constitution of 
the Supreme Grand Chapter, do hereby grant the 
prayer of said petitioners, and that the organization 

may be complete, do appoint brother a 

master mason, Worthy Patron ; sister Worthy 



34 



SUPREME BODIES. 



Matron, and sister 



Associate Matron of said 



chapter. 

And we do further authorize and empower our said 
Patron and sisters to confer the five degrees of the 
Adoptive Rite, according to the ceremonial and lec- 
tures approved by the Supreme Grand Chapter, upon 
all worthy applicants possessing the constitutional 
qualifications for the same. And we do further au- 
thorize and empower our said sisters, and their legal 
successors, to do and perform all and singular mat- 
ters and things relative to the Adoptive Kite within 
the jurisdiction of said chapter. And they are fur- 
ther authorized to elect and reject applicants at their 
discretion; by and with the consent and assistance 
of a majority of the members of the said chapter 
present upon such occasions, duly summoned, to 
elect and install the officers of the said chapter, as 
vacancies may happen, in manner and form as is or 
may be prescribed by the constitution of the Supreme 
Grand Chapter. 

Given under our hands 
and the seal of the Su- 




preme Grand 
this — clay of - 



Chapter, 
— in the 



the year of our Lord one 

thousand 

and — 



eight hundred 



M. E. Grand Patron. 



Grand Secretary. 
These charters were issued for some seven hundred 
chapters, located in part as follows: 



Alabama 1 

Arkansas 5 

California 11 

Colorado 2 

Connecticut 12 

Dakotah 2 

District of Columbia 1 



Minnesota 11 

Nevada 1 

Nebraska 12 

New Hampshire 4 

New Jersey 5 

New York 20 

North Carolina 12 



SUPREME BODIES. 35 

Tlorida 1 Oregon 4 

Illinois 181 Ohio 1 

Indiana 25 Pennsylvania 3 

Iowa 54 South Carolina 1) 

Kansas 82 Texas 8 

Kentucky 2 Tennessee 3 

Massachusetts 5 Virginia 2 

Michigan 2 Vermont 

Mississippi 7 Wisconsin 1 

Missouri 144 "Washington Terrify. . 1 

Maine 1 

Total G41 

The foreign market was also cultivated, as will ap- 
pear from the following: 

In 1868, Bro. Andres Cassard, with authenticated 
powers as Deputy Grand Patron for the South Amer- 
ican countries, made an extended tour through Ha- 
vana, Cuba, JSTew Grenada, Venezuela, Chili, Uru- 
guay, Brazil, portions of Mexico, and other parts of 
South America, where he successfully established 
many chapters. * * Through the active exertions 
of Bro. Henry J. Shields, Deputy Grand Patron for 
England, Ireland and Scotland, three chapters have 
been organized. — Robert Macoy's Report on Cor- 
respondence, Grand Chapter of New York, 1876. 

On the 8th of March last (1877), Bro. Andres Cas~ 
sard appointed, with our concurrence, Dr. David E. 
Dudley, a Deputy Grand Patron, with ample author- 
ity to confer the degrees upon worthy and qualified 
persons, and establish chapters in Egypt, China, 
Japan, Philippine Islands, Singapore, Calcutta, Bom- 
bay, and several of the chief towns on the island of 
Java. — Robert Macoy's Correspondence Report, 
Grand Chapter of New York, 1877. 

In Macoy's Standard it is asserted: 

More than fifty chapters were organized by brother 
Andres Cassard, Associate Grand Patron, in Cuba, 
Mexico, Central and South America, in 1871. 

While Edward O. Jenkins was Grand Patron of 
New York (1871), as well as before and subsequent 



36 SUPREME BODIES. 

to that time, he signed charters in blank, as M. E. 
Grand Patron, which were countersigned by brother 
Macoy as Grand Secretary, and he disposed of them, 
sometimes through his agents, who were styled Dep- 
uty Grand Patrons, and whom he appointed for dif- 
ferent States, and supplied with blank charters, rit- 
uals, and other supplies, and who, in some instances, 
traveled constantly, and did a flourishing business. 
At other times he sold them directly to petitioners, 
at from ten to thirty dollars each. The charters 
signed by brother Jenkins were sold as late as 1873. 
Not desiring to do injustice to any one, even by impli- 
cation, I quote from a letter of brother Jenkins: 

All business matters were attended to by the Grand 
Secretary, Robert Macoy. I never received one penny 
in any shape or form for charters, or anything else, 
nor desired to. 

Subsequently, as early as 1876, and as late as 1880 r . 
the charters were signed by brother Macoy as M. E. 
Grand Patron, and Pob Morris as Grand Secretary, 
but on most of them the name of Pob Morris was in 
the disguised handwriting of brother Macoy. 

In 1879 and 1880 the Grand Chapter of New York 
issued three charters, on the blank forms of the Su- 
preme Grand Chapter, to Alpha Chapter No. 1, lo- 
cated at Baltimore, Maryland, Arcadia Chapter No. 
3, Bowling Green, Kentucky, and Alpha Chapter. No.. 
1, located at Laramie, Wyoming, which are believed 
to be the only instances in which a State Grand Chap- 
ter has issued a charter for the organization of a 
chapter outside its territorial jurisdiction, with the 
exception of Mississippi, which chartered a chapter 
in Florida, 1876, previous to the organization of the 
General Grand Chapter, and California, which has 
chartered chapters in Nevada, the General Grand 
Chapter having turned the three chapters chartered 
by it in that State over to the care of the Grand 



SUPREME EODIES. 37 

Chapter of California. This was three: years subse- 
quent to the organization of the General Grand Chap- 
ter, which has jurisdiction over all territory not within 
the immediate jurisdiction of some grand chapter. 
These charters were filled up in the handwriting of 
brother Macoy. 

According to brother Macoy the constitution of the 
Supreme Grand Chapter was never printed, and the 
only indication we have that such a document existed 
is found in the proceedings of the Grand Chapter of 
Indiana at its meeting for organization, in which ap- 
pear some "Extracts from the constitution of the 
Supreme Grand Chapter, United States, Order of the 
Eastern Star." It will be noticed that this publication 
was in 1874, a year after the alleged organization of 
the Supreme Council !No. 3, in provisional form, and 
the extracts were undoubtedly furnished to brother 
Leach, who was the deputy of brother Macoy, and 
who was chosen the first Grand Patron of Indiana, 
by brother Macoy himself. The efforts made by the 
officers of grand chapters to obtain copies of the en- 
tire document met with failure; and it is evident that 
the existence of the Supreme Grand Chapter was 
purely imaginary, the whole work, authority, and 
emoluments being done and enjoyed by brother Ma- 
coy. These extracts were as follows: 

PREAMBLE. 

To give cosmopolitan extension and practical uni- 
formity to that branch of the adoptive rite which is 
embodied under the title of the Eastern Star; to re- 
deem it from the hands of empirics and irresponsible 
persons; and that its scriptural and traditional land- 
marks may be rendered more attractive and better 
understood; the chapter Order of the Eastern Star 
is hereby established under the following constitu- 
tion: 

CONSTITUTION. 

Article I. — Primary Source of Government. 
Section 1. The primary source of government of 



38 SUPREME BODIES. 

the chapter Order of the Eastern Star rests in the* 
Supreme Grand Chapter of the United States, whose 
times and place of meeting are regulated at the Grand 
Assemblages. 

MEETINGS. 

Sec. 2. The meetings of the Supreme Grand 
Chapter shall occur triennially, on the first Monday 
in September, at such place as may be designated at 
a previous meeting. At such meeting all the affairs 
of the adoptive rite shall be regulated, its rituals re- 
vised whenever experience renders it expedient, its 
officers elected and installed, and measures taken suit- 
able to the dignity and importance of the order, for its- 
dissemination into all parts of the country. 

Article II. — State Grand Chapters. 

Sec. 5. In each State jurisdiction, when not less 

than five chapters are regularly at work, a grand 

chapter may be organized by the concurrence of the 

representatives of five such chapters of the order. 

* * * ■* -a- ■* -* -* * ■* 

Sec. 10. The rituals to be used under authority 
of the Supreme Grand Chapter shall be those now in 
use, prepared under the supervision of the Supreme 
Grand Secretary, and no changes, additions or eman- 
dations shall be made, except by the direct authority 
of the Supreme Grand Chapter, in regular convention 
assembled. 

CHARTERS, RITUALS, ETC. 

Sec. 11. Charters shall be issued, rituals distrib- 
uted, and the general direction of the order exercised 
during the recess of the assemblages of the Supreme 
Grand Chapter, by order of the M. E. Grand Patron, 
through the Grand Secretary. 

At the time of the publication of these extracts 
brother Macoy was acting as chairman of a committee 
of the Grand Chapter of 'New York to revise the 
ritual, in violation of the tenth section. Evidently he 
did not deem it of any force. 

SUPREME COUNCIL No. 3. 

June 14, 1873, there was a meeting in New- 
York for the purpose of forming the General 



SUPREME BODIES. 39 

Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters, at which 
there were in attendance several brethren interested 
in the Eastern Star, and, at a conference held by them, 
preliminary steps were taken looking to the organiza- 
tion of a Supreme Grand Council of the order for the 
world, and a provisional organization was had, with 
Robert Macoy as Supreme Grand Patron; Frances E. 
Johnson, of ISTew York, Supreme Grand Matron ; An- 
dres Cassard, Associate Supreme Grand Patron; John 
L. Power, of Mississippi, Deputy Supremo Grand Pa- 
tron; Laura L. Burton, of Mississippi, Deputy Su- 
preme Grand Matron; W. A. Prall, of Missouri, Su- 
preme Treasurer; Bob Morris, Supreme Recorder; 
P. M. Savery, of Mississippi, Supreme Inspector. 
Other officers included E. E. Edminston, of Ten- 
nessee, and Julian K. Larke, of New York. Concern- 
ing this provisional organization brother Savery said, 
in 1875: 

The committee on constitution and regulations were 
to report at an adjourned meeting to be held in New 
York in September, in 1873. * * As the com- 
mittee failed to report, the provisional Grand Coun- 
cil was, at New Orleans, December, 1874 (the time 
and place at which the organization was to have been 
completed), pronounced dead. 

Brother Power, Grand Patron of Mississippi, 
March 12, 1875, said: 

I have the honor to be Deputy Supreme Patron 
for all this continent, and as I see no prospect of ever 
having a meeting of the Supreme Council * * I 
consider myself functus officio. Indeed the matter 
of dissolving the Supreme Grand Council was dis- 
cussed and agreed upon in New Orleans in December 
last by several whose names figure in the organization 
of 1873. 

That no attempt was made to give brother Macoy 
even the semblance of authority, until after the ques- 
tion of organizing a legitimate governing body for the 



40 SUPREME BODIES. 

order was raised, is evident from the fact that, in an 
article emanating from him in 1878 it is stated: 

The appointment of Supreme Patron was conferred 
at a convention of delegates from several states, held 
in the city of New York, June 14, 1873, by unani- 
mous election, letters patent, and subsequent instal- 
lation. 

The "subsequent installation," as appears by the 
same article, was not because he had been elected, 
"at a convention of delegates/' but by authority of 
a letter from Rob Morris, dated Lagrange, Kentucky, 
April 29, 1875, addressed to Prof. Andres Cassard, 
New York, authorizing him to install "Very Illus- 
trious Robert Macoy as my successor in the position 
of Supreme Patron of the World, Adoptive Rite," 
which it was claimed was done May 3, 1875, nine 
months after the beginning of the movement to or- 
ganize a legitimate governing body. 

During this period, the laws and jurisprudence of 
the order were in a chaotic condition. There was no 
written law, outside the little contained in the ritual 
then in use, and this lack had given rise to various 
modes of action on the same subject. It was almost 
the universal rule that "males" should pay at least 
double the fees and dues that "females" did. Not- 
withstanding this, there was, with many, a disposi- 
tion to deprive them of auy rights in a chapter. A 
considerable number of sisters insisted that they should 
not vote, either on petitions, or for officers, and the 
exercise of what he deemed his right to the ballot 
by the writer, in December, 1873, created some dis- 
cussion, and when the Grand Chapter of Indiana was 
organized, in May, 1874, sixteen so-called landmarks 
were incorporated into its constitution, fifteen of 
which were reproduced, with slight verbal changes, 
from the ritual then in use (Adoptive Rite), while a 
sixteenth was added, as follows: 

Master masons, when admitted to membership, 



SUPREME BODIES. 41 

shall have all the rights and privileges of the chapter 
when convened, except that of balloting for candi- 
dates, for membership, and voting for officers. 

This was adopted by a vote of twenty-three to five. 
This was the fuse that started the fire that resulted 
in the total destruction of the Supreme Grand Chap- 
ter and brother Macoy's control of the order. Through 
the Masonic Advocate and other journals I made 
direct assault upon the alleged landmark. In another 
section of the constitution it was required that "Every 
member present must vote" on petitions. The incon- 
sistency of the two provisions was pointed out. "With 
no laws accessible I obtained the addresses of those 
active in the work in other States and opened corre- 
spondence with some twenty of them, asking if they 
knew of any landmark or law depriving the brethren 
of the right to vote on any subject, and answers from 
Massachusetts to Oregon, from New Hampshire to 
Alabama, were that no such law was known. 

GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 

The first definite proposition to strike at the root 
of the matter, and put everything upon a reasonable 
basis by forming a legitimate supreme body, was made 
by me in the New York Courier of August 30, 1874, 
as follows: 

Two things, it seems to me, are needed immedi- 
ately: first, a Supreme Grand Chapter composed of 
representatives from the several grand chapters; sec- 
ond, revision and general boiling down and finishing 
up of the ritual, which is now defective both in style 
and language. Let us all buckle on our armor, and 
enter in earnest on the work of improving and ex- 
tending the order, and a very few years will place it 
in a very enviable position. But as long as it is made 
merchandise of by any one, to gain a livelihood, 
and persons are put in positions of honor and trust, 
not because they are qualified for them, but simply 
because they are not able to make a living otherwise, 
they will, like Othello, soon find their occupation 



42 



SUPREME BODIES. 



gone; it will drag out a miserable existence for a 
time, and finally fall to the ground of its own weight. 

Beginning in October, 1874, the writer contributed 
regularly to the Masonic Advocate of Indianapolis, 
communications relative to the order, and, filled with 
the zeal and fire of youth, he wrote some very pointed 
articles relative to its needs and management. It was 
a time when the future of the order could be made 
or marred very easily, and although the judgment of 
his maturer years cannot fully approve the strong 
language employed in clothing his thoughts, he rec- 
ognizes the fact that had he not pursued the course 
he did the subsequent history of the order might have 
been far different from the brilliant record of the last 
quarter of a century. 

His contributions were not appreciated by all, 
among those by whom they were not, was the Grand 
Patron of Indiana, who, in his address to the grand 
chapter in 1875, said: 

It has been suggested that the ritual should 

be revised, for the 
reason that it is a 
botch and discon- 
nected and ungram- 
matical. It is a little 
singular that all the 
intelligent men who 
have! received and 
worked the ritual 
have failed to make 
the discovery, and it 
has been left to In- 
diana in the sev- 
enty-fifth year of 
the nineteenth cen- 
tury to furnish the 
man who though 

"Young and of srr.all experience." VOUng and of Small 

experience makes the remarkable discovery, and sug- 
gests the remedy. 




SUPREME BODIES. 43 

At its meeting in 1875 the Grand Chapter of Indi- 
ana, its members being ignorant of the true status of 
the Supreme Grand Chapter, adopted the following: 

Resolved, that this grand chapter will not declare 
her independence of the Supreme Grand Chapter, 
but we hereby empower the Worthy Grand Patron, 
so soon as fraternal relations have been established 
with four or more State grand chapters, to join with 
them in a request to the officers of the Supreme 
Grand Chapter to convene the same immediately and 
perfect its organization, and on failure or neglect to 
do so, to call a general convention for the good of the 
order, to form a General Grand Chapter of the 
Eastern Star. 

At its organization, October 13, 1875, the Grand 
Chapter of Missouri adopted this resolution verbatim, 
but no action was taken under it by either gjrand 
body. The Grand Patron of Missouri wrote me con- 
cerning it: 

I cannot, and with present purpose, will not join 
in any such request, thereby recognizing the existence 
of what does not exist. * * The thing called a S. 
G. C. is a my tit. 

The writer of this history, from 1874 to 1876 car- 
ried on an extensive correspondence with sisters and 
brothers prominent in the work of the order in the 
several States, agitating the question of organizing a 
legitimate supreme body. P. M. Savery, Grand Lec- 
turer of Mississippi, under date of June 26, 1875, 
said : 

Dear Brother Engle: Yours of 24th to hand and 
its contents noted. There has never been a Supreme 
Grand Chapter or Council of the Order of Adoptive 
Kite, or of the Eastern Star, de facto. * * The 
Grand Chapter of Mississippi will meet at Tupelo 
on 14th of July next. I do not desire to bring up 
the subject (of forming a representative Supreme 
Grand Chapter) before them, but presume brother 



44 SUPREME BODIES. 

Power, Grand Patron, will do so, if you request it — 
which you write you have done. 

J. L. Power, Grand Patron, in a letter dated July 

7, 1875, said: 

Dear Brother Engle: Your favors of the 9th and 
24th ult. duly received. Plave been absent, hence 
delay in answering. * * * Our Eastern Star 
grand chapter meets on the 14th inst. It is my pur- 
pose to recommend action looking to the formation of 
a Supreme Grand Chapter — a legitimate grand body 
— that shall meet triennially, or as may be agreed 
upon. Your letter on the subject is most opportune. 

In harmony with these letters, the recommendation 
was made by the Grand Patron, and the matter being 
referred to a special committee of which brother 
Savery was chairman, the grand chapter adopted the 
following : 

Whereas, we deem uniformity of ritual and lec- 
tures essential to the present and fixture prosperity of 
the order; therefore, we respectfully recommend that a 
committee, consisting of seven members of this grand 
chapter, of which committee the Grand Patron and 
Grand Matron shall be members, shall be appointed 
to confer with like committees that may hereafter 
be appointed by other grand chapters of the order in 
the United States, or elsewhere, whose duty it shall 
be to take under advisement, and present, if practic- 
able, some feasible and judicious plan for the organi- 
zation of a Supreme Grand Chapter; which said su- 
preme body shall, when organized and recognized by 
two-thirds of the grand chapters in the United 
States, have absolute and supreme control over the 
ritual and lectures of the Adoptive Kite. "We also 
recommend that said committee shall be the accred- 
ited delegates from this grand jurisdiction to a con- 
vention of the order wheresoever and whensoever con- 
vened, and they shall have all power and authority 
to do any and all acts necessary and lawful to be done 
in the premises; and they shall report their doings 
to this grand chapter at each annual grand convo- 
cation. 



SUPREME BODIES. 45 

My correspondence with John M. Mayhew, Grand 
Patron of New Jersey, commenced in February, 
1875, and in his fourth letter, dated August 21, fol- 
lowing, he said: 

I look forward with considerable anxiety to the 
time when a supreme body shall be organized, under 
whose authority alone a ritual and other ceremonies 
and form of documents of the order shall be published, 
and from whom alone all such documents shall be 
procured. * * I am in hopes of receiving com- 
munications from Mississippi and Indiana on the sub- 
ject before our grand chapter meets on October 
13th. 

And in his next letter, August 29th, he said: 

Brother Engle: * * Your letter conveys some 
glad information, viz. : That the subject of a Supreme 
Grand Chapter is to come before the Grand Chapter 
of California in October. I shall also embody the sub- 
ject in my address to our grand chapter. I am, how- 
ever, in hopes that I shall receive something official 
from Mississippi in season. Can you assist me in the 
matter by writing them ? 

Subsequent letters discussed details of plans, and, 
in accordance with his letters, he presented the mat- 
ter to the grand chapter at its meeting, October 13, 
1875, and the following was adopted: 

Resolved, that five delegates be selected to repre- 
sent this grand chapter at any meeting or convention 
that may be called for the purpose of organizing a 
Supreme Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern 
Star. 

My correspondence with George J. Hobe, Grand 
Patron of Calif ornia, began in February, 1875, and 
in his ninth letter, dated August 18, 1875, he wrote: 

I am in receipt of yours of the 10th and 12th of 
July, as also the August number of the Masonic Ad- 
vocate, for which many thanks. I see by the Advo- 
cate that Mississippi has taken the initiatory step 



46 SUPREME BODIES. 

toward forming the so-called Supreme Grand Chapter 
of the United States. If we should receive a commu- 
nication from them before the session of our grand 
chapter, October 18th, it will, of course, come up in 
its regular order; if not, I think I shall bring it be- 
fore them myself. 

Which he did, and at its meeting at Vallejo, Octo- 
ber 19, 1875, the following was adopted: 

Resolved, that the grand chapter constitute a 
committed of seven, of which the Worthy Grand Pa- 
tron and Worthy Grand Matron shall be members, 
to confer with like committees that may hereafter be 
appointed by the other grand chapters of the order 
of the United States. It shall be their duty to take 
under advisement, and present, if practicable, some 
feasible and judicious plan for the organization of a 
Supreme Grand Chapter, which supreme body shall, 
when organized and recognized by two-thirds of the 
grand chapters of the order in the United States, 
have absolute and supreme control over the ritual 
and lectures of the order. 

Resolved, that said committee be the accredited del- 
egates from this grand jurisdiction to a convention of 
the orddr wheresoever and whenever convened, have 
power to do any and all acts necessary and lawful 
to be done in the premises, and report their doings 
to this grand chapter at each annual communication. 

Resolved, that the Grand Patron be requested to 
submit, or cause to be submitted, the action of this 
grand chapter to each and all sister grand chap- 
ters in the United States, and respectfully solicit their 
zealous co-operation. 

At a meeting of the Grand Chapter of Indiana, 
in April, 1876, the Grand Patron said, in his address: 

Several of the State grand chapters have passed 
similar resolutions to the one adopted by our grand 
chapter upon the subject of a Supreme Grand Chap- 
ter. As no definite action, however, has been taken 
upon this subject, I would recommend the repeal of 
the aforesaid resolution, and that you, by suitable 



SUPREME BODIES. 47 

action, fix a time, select a place, declare who shall 
he entitled to seats in the proposed Supreme Grand 
Chapter, and invite all other State grand chapters 
to unite with you in the work. The first Wednesday 
in November, and Indianapolis, would be a suitable 
time and place, in my judgment. 

In pursuance of this recommendation the following 
was adopted: 

Whereas, uniformity of work, modes of recogni- 
tion, and regulations governing eligibility to member- 
ship are not only desirable, but absolutely necessary 
to the permanent growth and prosperity of our order, 
now so rapidly increasing in numbers, and advancing 
in the estimation of the masonic fraternity; and 

Whereas, several grand chapters recognizing this 
necessity, have appointed committees to represent and 
act for them in a convention to be thereafter called 
to organize such a body, but have failed to take any 
steps which will lead to the calling of such a con- 
vention, and this grand chapter, realizing the im- 
portance of speedy and definite action which will lead 
to so desirable an end; therefore, be it 

Resolved, that all grand chapters of the order be 
invited and requested to appoint seven delegates of 
which the Grand Patron and Grand Matron shall be, 
ex-officio, two, with full power to do any and all acts 
necessary to be done in the premises, for and in be- 
half of their respective grand chapters, to meet in 
convention, for the purpose of organizing a Supreme 
Chapter, at Indianapolis, at 10 o'clock on "Wednes- 
day, the 8th day of November next. 

Resolved, that the Grand Patron appoint a com- 
mittee of three brothers and two sisters to act in 
conjunction with the Grand Patron and Grand Ma- 
tron, as delegates from this grand chapter to such 
convention. 

Resolved, that the said delegates be appointed the 
committee of this grand chapter to submit a copy of 
~the foregoing preambles and resolutions to all sister 
grand chapters, and request their prompt and zeal- 
ous co-operation. 



48 SUPREME BODIES. 

Resolved, that said committee be instructed to make 
all preliminary arrangements necessary for the ac- 
commodation of said convention. 

Resolved, that the necessary expenses of the said 
committee, not to exceed one hundred dollars, he paid 
out of the grand treasury: provided, no part thereof 
shall be expended for mileage. 

The Grand Chapter of Nebraska, on June 19, 1876, 
elected delegates to the convention, with full power 
to act for it. 

At its meeting in Chicago, October 4, 1876, the 
Grand Chapteir of Illinois accepted the invitation of 
the Grand Chapter of Indiana and elected four dele- 
gates to represent it. 

The Grand Chapter of Missouri, at its meeting in 
St. Louis, October 9, 1876, resolved to accept the 
invitation, and appointed seven delegates to repre- 
sent it. 

New Jersey supplemented her former action, on 
October 11, 1876, by accepting the invitation, and 
elected seven delegates to represent the grand chap- 
ter. 

And on October 17, 1876, the Grand Chapter of 
California took additional action, as follows: 

Resolved, that this grand body cordially accepts 
the invitation of the Grand Chapter of Indiana to 
send seven delegates to a Supreme Grand Chapter to 
be holden in the city of Indianapolis in November 
next. 

Resolved, that the delegates present at such grand 
council cast the votes of absentees. 

As the original date fixed for the assembling of the 
convention was very near the date of the presidential 
election, it was concluded to postpone it one week, 
and notice to that effect was issued by the delegates 
from Indiana. On November 15th the convention met 
and on the following day completed the organization 



SUPREME BODIES. 49 

of the General Grand Chapter. The Grand Chapters 
then in existence were those of New Jersey, New 
York, Mississippi, California, Vermont, Indiana, Con- 
necticut, Nebraska, Illinois and Arkansas; five of 
which were represented, and two others were com- 
mitted to the movement. 

The position of Rob Morris relative to this matter 
is indicated by the following extracts from a letter 
dated Nevada, California, Jnne 26, 1876: 

Dear Brother Engle: * * I am free to> say that 
1 think your plans are entirely practical, and that 
by judicious and prudent establishment of correct 
principle, a Supreme Chapter of the world may be 
formed at your November meeting, which will com- 
mand universal respect. Your personal exertions to 
this end are, in all respects, meritorious, and will se- 
cure to you the permanent honor and respect you 
have so well earned. I have accepted the general invi- 
tation to be present as "Father of the Order," and 
shall be glad to correspond with you fully and confi- 
dentially upon all questions that lie at the root of 
this subject. Under no circumstances will I permit 
my name to be used for any office in the supreme 
organization. I have read most of your articles in 
the Advocate, and generally can endorse your views. 

In answer to this I called brother Morris's atten- 
tion to the fact that while all members of the order 
would be heartily welcomed at the convention, it was 
to be composeid of delegates from grand chapters 
only, and on July 15, 1876, he wrote: 

I will, ere long, advance my opinions upon the sub- 
jects named. At present can only say your opinions 
coincide with mine. 

He then made inquiries as to the cost of organizing 
chapters, his idea being to organize enough chapters 
in Kentucky to establish a grand chapter. On July 
2 2d, following, he wrote: 

I will aid you all I can. I can get up four or five 



50 SUPREME BODIES. 

subordinate chapters very readily, but would not like 
to pay fees for charters. If your Grand Patron could 
see his way clear to reduce the terms, and so have the 
eclat of introducing the chapter system into this. State, 
it might be mutually advantageous. 

The design of brother Morris to organize the order 
in Kentucky was not pushed to success, and he did 
not attend the convention as proposed, and, evidently 
forgetful of our correspondence, he wrote, in an open 
letter dated Lagrange, Kentucky, October 2, 1877: 

When' the project of a General Grand Chapter 
originated I was not consulted, and although the or- 
ganizing meeting was held within four hours' travel 
of this place, I was not invited, but learned that, not 
having joined any chapter in the Eastern Star, I was 
not entitled to enter. 

To this I responded in the Masonic Advocate for 
November following : 

Whatever omission was made that should not have 
been was probably owing to an oversight on the part 
of the committee which made the original call. Cer- 
tainly it was not in the province of any individual 
to extend the call beyond the original limits. Cer- 
tainly no member of the order would have been ex- 
cluded, and, in fact, the convention passed an order 
"that all members of the order be entitled to seats 
and to speak in the convention." 

In 1880 the Most Worthy Grand Patron said, in 
his address to the General Grand Chapter: 

I have informally invited to be present upon this 
occasion, one whom the order will ever remember 
as the founder of the Order of the Eastern Star — 
brother Robert Morris, LL. D., of Lagrange, Ky. 
Our brother is not a chapter member, nor is he in 
the ordinary sense a member of the order; but as its 
founder he alone may occupy the exceptional position 
of membership in the order universal. I am assured 
by the brother that he has watched with deep interest 
the progress of the order through the several stages 1 



SUPREME BODIES. 51 

of its growth, and regards the organization and suc- 
cess of the General Grand Chapter as evidence of the 
Eastern Star's ultimate complete triumph. He bids 
us Godspeed, and assures me that he will be only too 
glad to aid us in any way in his power. Such being 
the case, I am sure that time will only increase the 
honor with which a grateful order will remember its 
founder. 

Brother Morris was at that meeting elected an hon- 
orary member of the body, and his natal day, August 
31st, was made the festal day of the order. In an ad- 
dress acknowledging these honors, he said: 

I am satisfied with what has been done by the of- 
ficers of this body in the last three years, and that 
the basis on which the order now rests is a perma- 
nent one. Second — I have always felt the warmest 
friendship for brother Macoy, and friendship is a 
thing not to be broken for slight cause. This friend- 
ship has existed for thirty years, and it would take a 
great deal to break it. I disapprove the course he 
has taken, and have labored unavailingly to restrain 
him. I would never suffer a hard word to sever true 
friendship, which is of inestimable value, but would 
bear many things from friends. Others have borne 
with my faults, and I will bear with theirs. Brother 
Macoy's course I have disapproved from the first, 
although I do not think he was properly treated at 
first; yet, that does not justify him in the course he 
has since pursued. * * * If any grand chapter 
has any idea of withdrawing from your body, as 
grand commanderies did from the General Grand 
Encampment, I would say to them, don't do it; I beg 
of you. "Wait fifteen or twenty years and let the 
General Grand Chapter have a chance to demonstrate 
the good that I am sure is in it, and which will result 
in such a grand success that the masonic fraternity 
will accept it as a helpmeet for it, and be surprised 
that it did not take it up sooner; for, properly worked 
out, it will form a grand attachment to free masonry. 
This I felt years ago, and I trust the day will come 
when every lodge will have in connection with it a 



52 SUPREME BODIES. 

chapter of this order. The more there are the cheaper 
they can be run, and the more good can they ac- 
complish. I am sorry to-day that I have not given 
my own personal attention for thirty years to> this 
matter, and it is with sincere regret that I realize 
it is too late for me to do the good in it that I conld 
have accomplished if I had begun years ago, but I am 
glad to know that younger men and women have 
taken hold of the work with a zeal and wisdom which 
will assure success; and I say to you: Preserve the 
order in unity; frown down all secession; keep the 
grand chapters in rank, for in union there is strength. 

Brother Morris was in attendance at the meeting of 
the general body in St. Louis, in 1886, and was loyal 
to the interests' of it up to the time of his death, 
July 31, 1888. 

The position assumed by brother Macoy was one 
of most bitter opposition to the! movement, the mo- 
tive of which may not be far to seek when it is re- 
membered that from the sale of charters at from ten 
to thirty dollars each, from the sale of rituals at from 
one to five dollars per copy, and from the sale of 
jewels at fifty-six dollars for a set of fourteen, similar 
to those that can now be bought for sixteen dollars, 
he had enjoyed an income of several thousand dollars 
a year. One of the principal causes: of dissatisfaction 
was the numerous changes made in the ritual. That 
in use in 1874 was revised and materially altered in 
1875, so that previous editions were useless when the 
later was used, and, in 1876, he issued another differ- 
ing still more from previous ones; even the different 
editions of the syllabus gave radically different di- 
rections as to the manner of giving the signs, so that 
it was found that, if chapters were to keep up with 
the order, annual expenditures must be made for the 
purchase of new editions of the ritual. When grand 
chapters which were using the 1875 ritual applied 
to the Masonic Publishing Company for additional 



SUPREME BODIES. 53 

copies of it, they were informed that it was out of 
print, and (that copies of it could not be purchased. 

The following is from the address of the Most 
Worthy Grand Patron in 1880: 

Soon after the publication of the ritual in Novem- 
ber, 1878, each member of your committee, and the 
printers, received a letter from a legal gentleman in 
ISTew York, saying that he had been retained by Mr. 
Robert Macoy to prosecute us individually for for- 
feiture and damages, for violation of his copyright 
upon the ritual published by him in 1876. The letter 
stated that, "Failing to hear from you within ten days, 
I shall proceed against you in the United States 
Court." * * * Our counsel's reply in our behalf 
was such that nothing further has been heard from 
the threatened suit. Thwarted in his effort for your 
injury in this direction, Mr. Macoy soon after pub- 
lished a work, containing less than one-half of our 
ritual, and falsely advertised it as an edition of the 
ritual published by the General Grand Chapter, cop>- 
ies of which were for sale at one-half the price of the 
authorized work. * * * 

The opposition of brother Macoy was not only man- 
ifested in a legitimate way, but assumed the shape of 
virulent personal attacks upon individuals and com- 
mittees of the General Grand Chapter. It is not 
deemed necessary to incorporate herein the worst of 
these, as they would soil the pages too greatly. 

Many of his expressions were in letters and postal 
cards sent to members of the order, but I will pre- 
sent only a few extracts of the least obnoxious nature 
from his printed articles. The following is from a 
postal card sent generally to members of the order 
in January, 1879: 

The new ritual, sent forth by the committee of the 
G. G. C. (Gen. Gulling Catchpenny), consisting of a 
blessed torn lamb (Mary's pet, whose fleece was white 
as snow), and two others of equal obscurity, being a 
thorough failure, except for mischief, is now appropri- 




54 SUPREME BODIES. 

ately known as The Lamb's Fry. This unskillful par- 
ody and unjust plagiarism on the recognized standard 
ritual can be had, postage prepaid, at 10 to 50 cents 
a copy, on application to the G. S. of the above body. 
Address D. W. Jengles, Indianapolis, Inch 

Only once did brother Macoy approach to wit 
in his enamations in the 
matter, which was in a two- 
page circular issued in 
1881, headed with the ac- 
companying cut, which he 
lablecl "A starry caudal ap- 
pendage." The following extracts are taken from it: 

The hybrid concern known as the G. G. Circus,, 
will pitch its tent, erect the ring, and spread the saw 
dust for special exhibition, for a few days only, at 
San Francisco, Cal., in August, 1883. The company 
will be fresh and unique, consisting of aesthetics,, 
acrobats, gymnasts, champion bareback riders, strong 
minders, &c. Signer Funnieman, captain of the gang, 
who writes ridiculous reports for G. C. of Mo., will 
handle the whip as ring master. Mr. Jengles:, Gr. S., 
the nice young man, whom all the women want to 
marry, will appear in his original character as clown. 
"Our Willis" will be on hand, as heretofore, to col- 
lect the revenue and appropriate the funds. "Our 
noble order," as some of the F. F. F. (Fair, Fat and 
Forty), fraternity proclaim it, is passing, with nota- 
ble rapidity, into "Our school for scandal," and will, 
under the auspices of the circus managers, soon pass 

into the region, of oblivion. 

* •* '* * * •* •* -x # -» 

In the year 1876, a few persons, having in view 
their own pecuniary interests, organized the concern 
known as Gr. Gr. 0. (Grand Gossiping Circus) of 
the O. E. S. They saw "millions in it," Having no 
ritual they plagiarized one already made and claimed 
it as their own, and are now reveling in the fruits of 
their dishonesty. • 

* * tt -X- 4v # # -* * *- 

Hops and Hoppers. — An item is going the rounds 



SUPREME BODIES. 55 

of the press that the chapter at Indianapolis has in- 
augurated a series of social hops for the season. The 
order was not organized for the purpose of dispensing 
hops, gratifying hoppers, or any sort of indecent gyra- 
tory and gymnastic displays. For what base purpose is 
the order being used. Shame ! It was this and similar 
kinds of immoral exhibitions that brought upon the 

order in Chicago and other places an opprobious title, 
•x- * * l •* * # * * * •*- 

SYMPATHETIC ADVICE. 

Dear friends, 
If you wish to keep your title clear 

For a mansion in the skies, 
And of Boss Female Stars have no fear 

Avoid Fast ones — and be wise. 

The columns of the New York Dispatch teemed 
with productions of brother Macoy's pen, of which 
this is a sample : 

Three years ago a few nervous and inconsiderate 
individuals met in a Western city and without lawful 
authority conglomerated a body which they termed 
G. G. C, which, being translated into good English, 
signifies General Grand Circus. This spurious organ- 
ization is now led and presided over by a very feeble 
Lamb, assisted by a few unknown stray sheep. 

The advocates of the concern admit that it possesses 
no authority, and is a nonentity, therefore its qual- 
ities are so' flat, stale and puerile that it does not rise 
to the dignity of an ordinary fraud, and it should be 
treated accordingly. The result is that either we 
should recognize this fraud as having a claim upon 
our fealty, or that we should at once and unanimously 
denounce it as what it really is — a fraud. If we love 
the order as it is, let us stand by it and ever be its 
friends; if we do not, let us help to forward the 
ideas of this fraudulent imitation. 

Immediately after the issuance of the ritual au- 
thorized by the General Grand Chapter brother Ma- 
coy issued extracts from it, containing the! opening, 
closing, and initiatory ceremonies, which he not only 



56 SUPREME BODIES. 

offered to sell, as lie always had sold Ids rituals, to all 
that would buy, whether masons or not, but he sent 
copies of it gratuitously to leading masons, who wetre 
not members of the order, in all parts of the country. 
In addition to these extracts he appended what he 
called "Critical and Explanatory Notes/' in which 
he ridiculed some of the changes made in the ritual, 
and reiterated his claim to ownership of the same. 
If brother Macoy had any legitimate grievance, it 
was in the infringement of his copyright, and for that 
there was no basis. Concerning this, Thomas M. 
Lamb said in his address to the General Grand Chap- 
ter in 1880: 

If Mr. Macoy 's preposterous claims of ownership 
of the ritual work of our order should be sustained, 
the Eastern Star would be thrown powerless into the 
hands of one man. A copyright is of no value unless 
the party claiming its benefits is wholly or substan- 
tially the author of the work copyrighted. The ritual 
and its several revisions, published and copyrighted, 
by Robert Macoy, are almost entirely the work of 
other brains than his own. The revisions were mostly 
the work of committees regularly appointed by the 
Grand Chapter of New York. The latest revision by 
that body was made by a committee appointed in 
1875. * * * The ritual published by the General 
Grand Chapter has more original matter than has ap- 
peared in all the rituals published by Mr. Macoy, 
and it is well known that we had access to all the orig- 
inal sources used by him in the compilation of the 
books he claims to own. * * * The various rituals 
published, and all the facts known to us, were submit- 
ted to able counsel, and it appeared, as the result of 
his examination, that Mr. Macoy's claim is as void in 
law as in moral right. 

As will be seen by readers of this history, the first 
manual issued by brother Macoy was in 1866, and it 
was not copyrighted, but, on issuing a subsequent 
edition in 1867, that was copyrighted, but any one at 



SUPREME BODIES. 57 

all familiar with, the copy-right laws knows that, in 
order to have it protected, a work must be copyrighted 
before it is issued; that it must bear the imprint of 
copyright; and that the copyright only protects orig- 
inal matter never before published. But brother Ma- 
coy did not own the copyright of any ritual issued 
before 1876, so that he had no right to raise his voice 
in objection to the action of thj; General Grand Chap- 
ter in publishing its ritual, so far as his individual 
rights were concerned, for it contained nothing that 
was original in the ritual of which he was the! owner 
of the copyright. The Mosaic Book, the Ladies' 
Friend, the Tatem Monitor, the Adoptive Bite, and 
other works, containing in one form or another the 
work of the J order, were the sources from which 
brother Macoy and the General Grand Chapter alike 
drew the substance of their rituals. After brother 
Macoy failed in his attempt to intimidate the com- 
mittee of the General Grand Chapter which had 
charge of the publication of its ritual, he took refuge 
under the assertion that, "1. I am not fond of a law- 
suit, and the parties do not reside in the judicial dis- 
trict with me; 2. They are pecuniarily worthless." 
To this response was made in "A review of the crit- 
ical and explanatory notes," by the writer, as follows : 

The strong arm of the law, with all the force of 
the United States government will protect Mr. Macoy 
in the possession of all the property to which he can 
prove a legal title. Though he may insinuate publicly 
as he has already done privately, that the reason for 
his not putting his threat of legal proceedings into 
execution was on account of the financial irresponsi- 
bility of the members of the committee, it lacks the 
elements of credibility, as, no matter how irresponsi- 
ble financially the members of the committee may be, 
if Mr. Macoy has any title to the "property" he so 
generously claims, the courts will grant a perpetual 
injunction prohibiting them from publishing the rit- 



58 SUPREME BODIES. 

ual of the General Grand Chapter, and Mr. Macoy 
can live off of the profits from future sales of the rit- 
ual as long as the life of the order can be maintained 
under his dictatorship. 

Even as late as 1892 brother Macoy kept up the 
claim of the existence of a governing body, the title 
and authority of which he stated in Macoy's Stand- 
ard: 

The Supreme Chapter by the inherent authority of 
possession and right of eminent domain, has exclusive 
authority to establish chapters in jurisdictions domes- 
tic and foreign, where no grand chapter of the rite 
exists; to establish a uniform system of work and 
lectures; has jurisdiction over all subjects of legisla- 
tion, and appellate powers to hear and decide all ques- 
tions of law and equity that may be brought before 
it; and to do each and everything appertaining to the 
good and perpetuity of the rite, in accordance with 
its constitution. 

And of this body he claimed to be Supreme Patron. 
And yet in his critical and explanatory notes he had 
said : 

I opposed the proposition of a General Grand 
Chapter because I had seen for thirty years the use- 
lessness of the two national masonic organizations, 
and the waste of immense sums of money obtained 
substantially under the guise of charity, for their 
maintenance. * * * 

I feared that such an organization in the Adoptive 
Rite would meddle with the rights of State grand 
chapters, deprive them of their sovereignty, inde- 
pendence, and absolute authority in their respective 
jurisdictions. 

A comparison of the very limited authority of the 
General Grand Chapter, composed of the representa- 
tives of the various grand chapters, with that claimed 
for the Supreme Chapter, which consisted solely of 
brother Macoy, will demonstrate, at least, hisi lack of 
sincerity. It was further claimed that Grand Chap- 



SUPREME BODIES. 59 

ters could only be formed by "the sanction of the 
Supreme Chapter or the Supreme Patron." 

This brief reference to the violent and bitter per- 
secution which those prominent in the movement for 
the upbuilding of the General Grand Chapter, and 
the establishment of the order upon a substantial 
foundation underwent, is set down in no spirit of mal- 
ice. It only serves as an index to point to the great 
mass of such material emanating from the same 
source, aimed principally at the then Most "Worthy 
Grand Patron, Thomas M. Lamb, and myself, as 
Right Worthy Grand Secretary, but some of the bit- 
terest shafts were directed at sisters who were also 
Past Grand Matrons. I have an abundance of such 
material, which was sent through the mails in utter 
violation of the postal laws against the transmission 
of obscene matter, which I could not be induced to 
put in type 1 . In his milder moments he wrote of the 
members of the General Grand Chapter as thieves, 
and its ritual as a bawdy one^ and if he ever alluded 
to either the General Grand Chapter or its active pro- 
moters, save in terms of opprobrium, I am ignorant 
of it. "Were it possible to set down the history of 
the order, and to convey even a faint idea of the trials 
through which it has passed to its present high estate 
without reference to this disagreeable feature, it 
would have been passed by. Brother Macoy's mind 
was naturally warped by personal interests, and his 
nature was such that he could not view, unbiased, 
a subject in which he was so deeply concerned. The 
order owes much to his efforts toward systematizing 
and arranging it, and if he could have disabused his 
mind of the conviction that both the order and its 
ritual were his personal property, and have welcomed 
the movement that was designed to more thoroughly 
systematize and organize it, and induced the Grand 



60 SUPREME BODIES. 

Chapter of E"ew York, which, was thoroughly under 
his influence, to accept the invitation to participate 
in the convention which organized the General Grand 
Chapter, and attended the same, as a representative 
of his Grand Chapter, he would have been received 
with the highest honor, and might have handed down 
a name unsullied by the mistakes of his later years. 
He has passed beyond the reach of censure, or re- 
proach, into a region, let us hope, where, with clear 
vision he can see the unselfishnessi of the labors of 
those he opposed, and can realize that the welfare of 
the order, which was really near his heart, was also 
dear to them. 

The General Grand Chapter in 1895 adopted the 
following, reported by a committee of which the 
writer was chairman : 

Robert Macoy, Past Grand Patron of New York, 
although never connected with this body, but rather 
opposed to it, rendered most valuable service! to the 
order by his talent and great executive ability, giving 
it the chapter form of organization which has resulted 
in its present highly prosperous condition. We gladly 
then cover what we deem his failings, believing that 
be honestly held and battled for his views, with the 
broad mantle of charity, and express the sense of 
loss we must feel as an order, and inscribe his name 
upon the General Grand Chapter memorial scroll. 

Many masons who held positions of prominence had 
a very intolerable spirit toward the order, which 
found expression in many ways; sometimes, as in 
Ohio, in excluding chapters from lodge rooms, under 
all circumstances ; and sometimes by severe attacks 
in the columns of the masonic press. Numerous as 
these were, we will mention only one. 

One of the most reputable of masonic journals, 
the Philadelphia Keystone, in a three-column article 



SUPREME BODIES. 61 

upon the address of Mattie A. Yost, Grand Matron of 
Missouri, had this to say: 

"We are pronouncedly opposed to "hair pin" ma- 
sonry. We do not think that a tyled lodge or chap- 
ter is the place for males and females to congregate, 
and we know that freemasonry, in its institution, its 
inherent character, and its present purpose, has no 
affiliating elements that render it homogenous with a 
female secret society. Masonry ivas not made for all 
men, and certainly it ivas made for no women. * * 
And shall it ever be that ancient craft masonry 
will officially recognize "hair pin" masonry, and take 
it to its arms? Shade of King Solomon, forbid the 
banns! * * * Let those individuals who created 
this order alone recognize and take care of their ille- 
gitimate offspring. 

Sister Yost was denied the columns of this masonic 
journal by its valiant editor, to make reply to his 
ungentlemanly assault, but she found an equally rep- 
utable masonic journal, the Masonic Advocate, that 
gave her the opportunity to castigate the gentleman 
in such a way that he had nothing more to say. 



CHAPTER III. 



EITUALS. 

THE following is a complete list of rituals of the 
Eastern Star extant, arranged alphabetically by 
the names by which, for the sake of brevity and con- 
venience, they are designated in this history. 

Adoptive Rite. — Adoptive Rite. A Book of In- 
structions in the Organization, Government, and 
Ceremonies of Chapters of the Order of the Eastern 
Star. Arranged by Robert Macoy, Grand Secretary 
of the Supreme Grand Chapter. New York, Ma- 
sonic Publishing Company, 626 Broadway. 1868. 
Copyrighted, 1868, by the Masonic Publishing and 
Manufacturing Company. 

Adoptive Rite Revised. — Same as above. (1874.) 

Adoptive Rite Ritual. — Adoptive Rite Ritual. A 
Book of Instruction in the Organization, Govern- 
ment and Ceremonies of Chapters of the' Order of 
the Eastern Star, arranged by Robert Macoy, Past 
Grand Secretary of the Supreme Grand Chapter. 
Revised Edition. New York: Macoy Publishing 
and Masonic Supply Co., 34 Park Row, N. Y. 
1897. Copyrighted, 1868, by the Masonic Publish- 
ing and Manufacturing Company, and in 1897, by 
J. G. Barker. 

Book of Instructions. — F. A. T. A. L. Book of In- 
structions. 1861. No imprint. Not copyrighted. 

California Ritual. — Ceremonies for opening the Chap- 
ter, Conducting Business, the Eorm of Initiation, 
Closing the Chapter, and Installation of Officers, 
for the use of Subordinate Chapters under the 
Jurisdiction of the Grand Chapter of California, 
of the Order of the Eastern Star. Printed by Au- 
thority. (1873.) Not copyrighted. 

(62) 



RITUALS. 63 

California Revised. — Same as above. San Francisco. 
Spalding & Barto, Book and Job Printers, 414 
Clay street. 1877. Not copyrighted. 

Critical and Explanatory Notes. — Ritual of the Order 
of the Eastern Star, as "set forth and established" 
by the General Grand Chapter. With Critical and 
Explanatory Notes. By Robert Macoy, 33d De- 
gree, Past National Grand Secretary and Past 
Grand Patron of New York, and Grand Patron of 
the Order. "Uniformity of Ritual is Desirable." 
New York: Macoy, Publisher, 4 Barclay Street. 
1878. Copyrighted, 1878, by Robert Macoy. 

Crombie's Ritual. — Ritual of the Order of the East- 
ern Star. Revised by Brother John Crombie, 33d 
Degree, 90th Degree, 96th Degree, Past Grand 
Warden, Grand Lodge of Scotland; Past Provin- 
cial Superintendent of Aberdeenshire; Past Provin- 
cial Grand Master for Aberdeenshire, &c, Royal 
Order of Scotland; Sovereign Grand Master Gen- 
eral for Scotland, Royal Masonic Rite, &c, &c, 
&c. Aberdeen: Gibson & Thompson, 8 Gaelic 
Lane. 1889. Not copyrighted. 

General Grand Chapter Ritual. — Ritual of the Order 
of the Eastern Star, Published by Authority of the 
General Grand Chapter. Printed for the General 
Grand Chapter. (1878.) Not copyrighted. 

General Grand Chapter Revised. — Ritual of the 
Order of the Eastern Star. Published by Authority 
• of the General Grand Chapter. Eirst Revised Edi- 
tion. Copyrighted, 1890. 

Ladies' Eriend. — The Ladies' Eriend, Containing all 
the Lectures and Exoteric Ceremonials, made use 
of in Conferring the Adoptive Degrees of Masonry, 
Consisting of the Eastern Star, Mason's Daughter, 
Kindred Degree, Good Samaritan, and Heroines of 
Jericho, by G. W. Brown, M. A. Ann Arbor. 
Press of Dr. A. W. Chase, Main Street, 1866. 
Copyrighted by G. W. Brown, 1866. 

Lowe's Expose. — Adoptive Masonry Illustrated. A 
full and complete Illustrated Ritual of the five de- 
grees of Female Masonry, comprising the degrees 
of Jehpthah's Daughter, Ruth, Esther, Martha 



64 RITUALS. 

and Electa, and known as the Daughter's degree, 
Widow's degree, Wife's degree, Sister's degree, and 
the Benevolent degree. By Thomas Lowe. Ezra 
A. Cook, Publisher, 1881. Copyrighted by Ezra 
A. Cook, 1881. 

Macoy's Manual. — Manual of the Order of the East- 
ern Star, containing the Symbols, Scriptural Illus- 
trations, Lectures, etc., adapted to the System of 
Adoptive Masonry. Arranged by Robert Macoy, 
National Grand Secretary. "I have seen His Star 
in the East and have come to Worship Him." 
Beautifully Illustrated. New York, Masonic Pub- 
lishing and Manufacturing Company, 430 Broome 
Street. Chicago, J. C. W. Bailey. 1866. Not 
copyrighted. Subsequent editions copyrighted. 

Macoy's Ritual. — Ritual of the Order of the Eastern 
Star. A Book of Instruction for the Organization, 
Government and Ceremonies of Chapters of the 
Order in every department, by Robert Macoy, Su- 
preme Grand Patron, and Past Grand Patron, 
Grand Chapter of New York. Illustrated. New 
York, Robert Macoy, Publisher, 4 Barclay Street, 
1876. Copyrighted by Robert Macoy, 1876. ■ 

Macoy's Standard. — The Rite of Adoption. The 
Standard Rituals of the Degrees of the Eastern 
Star, the Queen of the South, and the Amaranth. 
To which is added that of the Matron's: Adminis- 
trative Degree. A complete Book of Instruction 
for the Organization, Government and Ceremonies 
of the Rite of Adoption, in every Department. By 
Robert Macoy, 33d degree, Supreme Patron 
of the Eastern Star, and Vicar-General of the 
A. and A. Scottish Rite of Adoption, Southern 
Jurisdiction. New York: Robert Macoy, Pub- 
lisher, 1887. Copyrighted by Robert Macoy, 1876, 
1887. Later edition copyrighted by Robert Macoy, 
1891. 

Michigan Ritual. — Without title. 1875. Not copy- 
righted. 

Morris's Manual. — Manual of the Eastern Star De- 
gree as arranged by competent authority. 1860. 
No imprint. Not copyrighted. 



RITUALS. 65 

Mosaic- Book. — The Mosaic Book of the American 
Adoptive Rite, in three parts. Part I. General 
Instructions. Part II. The Eitual. Part III. 
Constitution, By-Laws, etc. First Edition. Pub- 
lished under the authority of the Supreme Constel- 
lation of the American Adoptive Kite. New York, 
John W. Leonard & Co., 383 Broadway. 1855. 
Copyrighted by John W". Leonard, 1855. 

Mosaic Second. — The Mosaic Book of the American 
Adoptive Rite. In two parts. Part I. General 
Instructions. Part. II. The Ritual. Second Edi- 
tion. Published under the Authority of the Su- 
preme Constellation of the American Adoptive 
Rite. New York: J. B. Taylor, Y. E. Gr'd Sec'y,. 
335 Broadway. 1857. Not copyrighted. 

New York German. — Ritual des Ordens vom Ost 
Stern. Lelirbuch zur Leitung von Kapiteln,. 
geordnet und zusammengestellt von Robert Macoy, 
Gross-Patron des Gross-Kapitels im Staate New. 
York. Unberseszt fuer den Gebrauch in Deutschen 
Kapiteln fuer Concordia Kapitel von Simon Lam- 
bert. New- York, Druck von "Der Fuehrer." 
1898. Not copyrighted. 

New York Ritual. — The Authorized Standard Ritual 
of the Order of the Eastern Star in the State of 
New York. A system of forms and ceremonies, 
with necessary instructions for chapters. As re- 
vised by a committee at the annual session of the 
grand chapter, held in June, 1897. New York: 
Published by the Grand Chapter, 1900. Copy- 
righted by Robert Macoy, 1876, 1887, 1891; by 
Clara Clark, 1895; by Grand Chapter, Order of 
the Eastern Star, State of New York, 1896, 1899, 
1900. 

Rosary. — The Rosary of the Eastern Star, compris- 
ing the Lectures, Odes, Emblems, Scriptural Read- 
ings, and General Directions appertaining to the 
popular and elegant system of Adoptive Masonry, 
by Rob Morris, LL. D., Masonic Writer. Chicago, 
John C. W. Bailey, Printer and Publisher, P. O. 
Box 1439, 1865. Copyrighted bv Rob Morris, 
1865. 



6Q RITUALS. 

Scotch Ritual. — Ritual of the Order of the Eastern 
Star. Aberdeen: Printed by W. Milne Gibson, 8 
Gaelic Lane. 1900. Not copyrighted. ' Same as 
Crouibie's ritual except title page. 

Tatem's Monitor. — The: Monitor of the Eastern Star, 
containing the Ritual of Adoptive Masonry em- 
braced in the Eastern Star Degree, consisting of the 
Initiation, Degree Work, Ceremony for Opening, 
and Closing a Lodge, Installation Services, etc., To- 
gether with forms and rules for the government of 
lodges, compiled and arranged by John H. Tatem, 
Adrian, Michigan. Holmes, Cook & Bruner, 
Printers, Adrian, Mich. Copyrighted bv J. H. 
Tatem. 1867. 

Thesauros. — Thesauros of the Ancient and Honorable 
Order of the Eastern Star as collected and ar- 
ranged by the Committee and adopted by the Su- 
preme Council in Convocation, assembled May, 
1793. Copyright Secured. Printed for the use of 
the Fourth Division, U. S. By order of the G. L. 
1850. 

The following account of the various rituals pub- 
lished takes them in the order of their publication, so 
that the reader can trace the development of the 
work of the order, and note its various changes. It 
has been deemed best to give in this chapter only a 
general outline of them, reserving to a. subsequent 
chapter the explanations of the various emblems, and 
grouping the different explanations of each emblem 
or class of emblems together, so that the changes may 
be more easily noted without critical study. 

I am aware that criticism may bo made that too 
copious extracts have been inserted herein from rit- 
uals which are now obsolete, but it must be remem- 
bered that Macoy's Manual and Adoptive Rite Ritual 
can be purchased in the open market by any tbatt will 
buy, and that only the initiated can know what 
changes have been made, and wherein the former 
work is similar to that now in use. Those who have 



RITUALS. 67 

no idea of the loose manner in which former rituals 
have been kept, or of their complete acoessability by 
any one caring to read them, may criticise the author 
for thus quoting from them, but, secure in his belief 
that he has divulged no new facts he has chosen thus 
to present the evolution of the ritual. The various 
efforts, largely unavailing, on the part of the various 
grand chapters, to restrict the circulation of the ritual, 
emphasizes strongly the necessity of that which was 
prayed for in the memorial of the Grand Chapter of 
Texas to the General Grand Chapter in 1898, on 
which a committee will report in 1901, viz: the pub- 
lication of a manual to contain the lectures and other 
non-secret portions of the ritual for general sale, re- 
serving the secret work for communication in an- 
other way. In this history will be found nothing that, 
even if it had been quoted from the present ritual, 
would not properly find a place in such a manual. 
Reference is made: in the Preface to this subject, to 
which the reader's attention is called. 

THE THESAUROS. 

In chapter I, the authenticity of this ritual is dis- 
cussed. In the preface of 1819 it is said of the order: 

During the revolutionary war, and the last war 
with England, it tended greatly to soften barbarous 
strife by bringing to the aid of the wounded, the gen- 
tle charity of enlightened sisterhood. 

In the ritual it was stated that "no officer of the 
Supreme Constellation receives any fee or reward 
for services rendered in that capacity, nor can the 
council itself establish any treasury or permanent 
fund whatever in connection with the order." Nor 
was any officer of a constellation to be allowed any 
fee or emolument for services. Meetings were to be 
held quarterly. The officers of a constellation were 



68 RITUALS. 

Principal; Vice Principal; five sisters of the rays, viz: 
Ray Blue, Pay Orange, Pay White, Pay Green, and 
Pay Ped; Treasurer, and Secretary. 

In the charges accompanying the several degrees 
the candidate was thus addressed: 

At initiation. — May your obedience be as exem- 
plary as that of Jephthah's daughter. May your 
honor be in your hands a weapon of might to cut 
asunder all unholy ties, and prove the sword of the 
Spirit, which is the "Word of God. May your apron 
caution you to keep your garments unspotted from the 
world, and your emblematical color, blue, advise: you 
constantly of that cerulean hue which appears in the 
clear heavens, to win us upwards to those still higher 
mansions, not made with hands, eternal in the heav- 
ens. So mote it be * * 

At passing. — May your attachment be like that of 
Puth, both to the service and the people of God. 
May your sheaf of wheat move you to produce an 
hundred fold of the peaceable fruits of righteousness. 
May your glove warn you of those thorns and asperi- 
ties which will everywhere be found until "He that 
cometh shall come." May your emblematical color, 
orange, continually suggest to your mind amidst the 
Spring and Summer of life, that when its Autumn 
cometh on and the Winter of death draweth nigh, your 
ripened sheaves shall be acceptable, and the Lord of 
the harvest giveth you an eternal rest among those 
pronounced worthy, good and faithful servants. So 
mote it be * * 

At raising. — May the spotless purity of your hearts 
be like that of virtuous Esther. May your golden 
crown entice your thoughts to that brilliant company 
that encircles the throne of God. May your band 
serve to connect you in spirit with the pure of all ages 
who have gone up to their kindred heaven; and your 
emblematical color, white, awaken devout aspirations, 
that after death shall have released you from the 
soiled raiments of the flesh, your souls washed white 
in the blood of the Lamb, may you be presented for 
acceptance of your Pedeemer, without fault before the 
throne of God. So mote it be. 



RITUALS. 69 

At exalting. — A solemn union, while we contem- 
plate the scene described by a faithful John. An 
open sepulcher, and a triumphant God! Weeping to 
joy and tears to smiles! The Redeemer, touched by 
human grief, and the dead, that died in the Lord called 
again to life. And can a member of the Eastern Star 
ever banish such thoughts from the heart? May 
your faith in God's promises be like that of Martha, 
the sister of Lazarus, whom Jesus loved. May your 
opened sepulcher admonish you of the end of life, and 
the resurrection of those that follow the Conqueror 
through the valley of the shadow. May your brooch 
be as the urim and thummim of the old dispensation 
whose mysterious lights called to enquire the will of 
God, and your emblematical color, green, speak aloud 
to him that said: " Whosoever liveth and believe th 
in me shall never die." Where the spirit of the Lord 
is, there is liberty. Greenness springs never from the 
barren sand, but warmed by the sunshine of his 
favor, and counseled by his whisperings of love, you 
shall be planted as trees in the garden of the Lord, 
and dwell in the house of the Lord forever. 

So mote it be * * 

At perfecting. — The circle is complete. The col- 
ors five have met your eyes and you have been en- 
lightened by the glory thereof. The Star in the East 
is before you in all its rays. Signals and symbols, 
traditions and ancient tokens have yielded their treas- 
ures to your perseverance and I hail you members 
and brothers, protectors of the Eastern Star, worthy 
and true. Let the labors through which I have cheer- 
fully led you, yield blessings of consolation in the 
hour of need. As daughters, widows, wives, sisters 
and sister-in-laws, who obey faithfully the precepts 
of this order, you will ever be under the protection of 
one who will spread the mantle of his love around 
you when the storm beats furiously. As brother pro- 
tectors you will be a wall to these defenseless ones 
and shed your blood, if need be, that no> evil approach 
them. So let your light shine before men, that they 
may see your good works, and glorify your Father 
which is in heaven. You have seen His Star in the 
East! Come ye then and worship him! May the 



70 RITUALS. 

obedience of Jephthah's daughter, and the attach- 
ment of Ruth, and the purity of Esther, and the faith 
of Martha, and the hospitality (truth) of Electa adorn 
the circle of your virtues, and stand forth, of all the 
brightest. May your grasping hands warn you that 
in life we are but the stewards of a master who has 
commissioned us to dispense His bounties without 
grudging. May your collar with its array of symbols 
tell to the suffering and the needy, that you are of 
those whose first fruits were an oblation to the Lord; 
and your emblematical color, red, recall you to those 
drops of blood that fell to' the ground for your sake. 
In that blood, as the Alpha and Omega of the Eastern 
Star, our labors gain their sanction, as christian works. 

To those red drops falling as heavy rain from a 
pierced side of Messiah, may you ever turn with per- 
fect hope, and so may you live, sisters and brethren, 
that your obedience, attachment, purity, faith, and 
hospitality (truth), may survive your enduring monu- 
ments on earth, long after you shall have gone to your 
glorified and eternal rest. 

So mote it be * * 

"No portion of the lectures or secret work was 
given. 

THE MOSAIC BOOK. 

In the Mosaic Book the officers of a constellation 
were designated by symbols as noted, the symbols 
being found also in the border of the charter (see il- 
lustration), and were as follows : 

Brothers: Heleon the first and chief Pillar; presi- 
dent of council ; personator of Jephthah. — Lion. 
Philomath, the second Pillar; lieutenant to Heleon; 

personator of Boaz. — Coiled snake 1 . 
Verger, the third Pillar; personator of Ahasuerus; 

Treasurer. — Raven. 
Herald, the fourth Pillar; personator of St. John; 

Secretary. — Eagle. 
"Warder, the fifth Pillar; Keeper of portals. — Dove. 
Sisters: — Luna,, the first or chief Correspondent; per- 
sonator of Adah. — Violets. 



RITUALS. 71 

Flora, the second Correspondent; persona tor of Ruth. 

— Sunflower. 
Hebe, the third Correspondent; personator of Es- 
ther. — Lilies. 
Thetis, the fourth Correspondent; personator of Mar- 
tha. — Pine branch with cones. 
Areme, the fifth Correspondent; personator of Electa. 
— Roses. : 

The other emblems found in the border of the char- 
ter were used in the Mosaic Book as follows: 

Five stars in a blue circle represented the constel- 
lation. 

The gavel represented the five Pillars. 
The heart, the five Correspondents. 
The perfect ashlar, the landmarks. 
The ring, the memorial, "the semi-annual passport 
communicated by the Y. E. Grand Secretary to the 
subordinate constellation for traveling purposes only." 
The sun, the Luminaries, "the governing officers of 
the Supreme Constellation." 

The Pillars alone had power to appoint the Corre- 
spondents, elect candidates, nominate their own suc- 
cessors, and appoint times and places of meetings. 
Stated meetings were to be held weekly, semi-monthly, 
monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly as the by-laws 
should specify. Three Pillars were necessary for the 
opening of a constellation, and five of each sex were 
essential for work. Before opening, the membership 
board was purged by the Pillars and Correspondents, 
and the names of any not entitled to attend were 
erased therefrom. Then, only the Pillars and Corre- 
spondents being present: 

Heleon addresses Warder: — Sir and Pillar. The 
constellation is about to be opened for the purposes 
contemplated in this charter. Your duties will re- 
quire you to remain without, guarding with all dili- 
gence, the entrance to this place and suffering neither 



72 RITUALS. 

fear nor favor to influence you in admitting improper 
visitors. Will you perform this trust in truth, and 
vigilance ? 

Warder — What guarantee have I that, in my ab- 
sence, the work of the constellation will be performed 
agreeably to the constitution of the Supreme Constel- 
lation and the usages of the American Adoptive Rite ? 

Heleon — The honor of a mason. 

Warder — It is well, — I accept it — and, if youi will 
furnish me with the means of security, I will guard 
you in truth and vigilance while here assembled. 

Heleon — Receive the key. — He presents him with 
the key of the room whereupon the Warder retires to 
the anteroom, locks the door on the outside, and 
thenceforth, until the close of the meeting, the secur- 
ity of the constellation is under his sole and peculiar 
care. 

Heleon — Ladies and Sirs. The hour of meeting 
has arrived. The precautionary measures of security, 
both within and without, have been duly taken, and 
it is now my will that the christian star be formed 
for the purpose of improvement and social pleasure. 

The officers then assumed their stations, (See illus- 
tration of labyrinth, chapter IV,) and members 
were admitted two at a time. "When convenient they 
should be one of each sex, the lady walking on the 
right." They then passed the labyrinth. "The lady 
-should take the left of the gentleman when they pass 
Philomath. As each chair is passed (except 5), they 
make the initiation sign and receive from its occupant 
the responsive sign. Arriving before Heleon, each pre- 
sents a Tessera to that officer, who examines it and, if 
found correct, invites them to proper seats." 'After 
Scripture readings (Isa. lxiii, 1-6; I Peter, ii, 21-25,) 
and prayer, Philomath said : 

Let us attend to the instructive lessons of our order. 
We have five degrees, named respectively, Jephthah's 
Daughter, Ruth, Esther, Martha, and Electa, In these 
we contemplate certain exalted virtues in their rela- 
tionship to the history of our Lord Jesus Christ, that 




Rob Morris. 



RITUALS. 73 

perfect exemplar of all virtues. In His eventful and 
blessed life we view Him resigning his blessed life to 
fulfil His Father's oath that the soul that sinneth 
shall die; forsaking His princely mansion in heaven 
to dwell in a humble place on earth; offering Himself 
a victim to rescue His people from impending and 
eternal death; relying, with unswerving faith, upon 
the promises of God; and, finally, sacrificing all 
things, fame, power, friends, and life, in testimony 
of the religion He came to establish. Was there ever 
love like His ? 

Which was followed by a rehearsal, by the Corre- 
spondents, of the signs, meaning of emblems, etc., 
each followed by a response by Philomath, of which 
the following is a specimen: 

It is well. And when a sister in distress hails us 
with that sign, we will recall the merits of Electa 
and of you, my sister, her representative ■•; be reminded 
of our covenant of adoption, and, responding with the 
pass of this degree, afford her prompt relief. Broth- 
ers, shall it be so? All reply, Even so. 

The closing ceremony was very brief, but em- 
braced the prayer, "Holy and merciful God." 

At the time of initiation, the Herald thus addressed 
the candidate in the anteroom: 

The objects for which we are banded together, are 
to comfort, protect and aid each other through the 
labyrinth of human life, and make its hardships light 
by means of cheerful companionship, and social pleas- 
ures. * * We are tongue tied against slandering 
any member of this order; and bound with chains 
and fetters against doing one of them any manner of 
wrong. You will in like manner be placed under re- 
straint. We are all of us, in faith, christians; and it 
is a large part of the business of this society to re- 
hearse the life and doctrines of Christ, and endeavor 
to imitate and practice upon his example. In this 
faith and in these works you, too, will be expected to 
participate. 



74 RITUALS. 

After her entrance, Thetis, acting as Conductress, 
came forward, took the candidate by both hands, 
and thus addressed her: 

"Welcome, my dear friend, to our constellation. The 
recommendations you bring us have convinced us 
that yon are a proper subject for the light of adoptive 
masonry. We trust the lessons that we shall teach 
yon here, will both please and instruct you. Hu- 
man life is a labyrinth through which we wander, too 
often, alas! blindly and in ignorance. It is good for 
us to have a friendly form by our side who has trod 
this way before us, and a friendly hand that can guide 
us with infallible certainty and safety through its 
most intricate mazes. Such a companion may be 
found in Jesus Christ; who lived as we are living, 
died as we must die, and went before us to heaven 
to prepare a place for us. Permit me, however, on 
the present occasion to act as your guide through a 
labyrinth, which otherwise you could not pass, and to 
lead yon to the presence of our enlightened chief of- 
ficer. But receive first of all this copy of the divine 
guide of life. 

A small bible was then presented to the candidate 
and the labyrinth passed, a halt being made before 
each officer, when a dialogue took place of which this 
will give an idea: 

Herald — What bringest thou? 

Thetis — I know not. 

Herald — You know not? 

Thetis — But I have a hope. 

Herald — What hopest thou, then? 

Thetis — Affection . 

Herald — It is well. Pass, Affection. 

The several "hopes" were Amiability, Charity, Con- 
stancy, Delicacy, Discretion, and Faith. 

Arriving at her station Thetis said : 

This is the seat that I have vacated for a time, 
that I may assist your wandering steps through our 
labyrinth. We are taught in the lessons of adoptive 



RITUALS. 75 

masonry to resign at times, our comforts and ease, 
that by so doing, we can benefit our fellow-creatures. 
Be seated. Soon may you be enlightened, my dear 
friend, to fill this or some other station in our order. 
Whenever wearied on the journey of human life, may 
you always find, as now you do, a friend who has a 
place and a heart to refresh you. Bise now, and let 
us be going. 

Arriving at Heleon, he repeated the covenant of 
adoption, which consisted of five ties, covering 1, se- 
crecy; 2, obedience to laws; 3, advice, sympathy, and 
aid; 4, avoiding unkindness; 5, to model life upon 
example of Jesus Christ. It being assented to, he 
said: 

It is well. We readily accept the pledge you make 
us. We share with you in this covenant and do* now 
accept you into our band. Herald, make record that 
sister , the of brother , an affil- 
iated master mason, is now initiated into the American 
Adoptive Rite. 

After an intermission, the signs were repeated, and 
Heleon further addressed the candidate: 

My sister, we hail with true pleasure your coming 
amongst us. The work of adoptive masonry is amply 
sufficient for us all, and we shall rejoice to find you 
excelling in your zeal that of the most devoted mem- 
bers of our society. We are laboring to increase our 
own happiness and -to promote that of others. Our ex- 
perience and the wisdom we gain from the scriptures 
alike teach us that this world is a harsh, unfriendly 
scene, poorly adapted to impart felicity; and that it is 
chiefly by combining the efforts of the good and true, 
in the work of morality and religion, that happiness 
is to be acquired and extended. The greater our abil- 
ity to do good, the more pleasure we shall enjoy. We 
meet in private, that we may arrange our plans for 
the good work in which we are engaged, without in- 
terruption from those who 1 can not understand or sym- 
pathize with us. In our meetings, we strive to learn 
our duty as beings who possess an immortal part, and 



/ 5 RITUALS. 

when we return home it is our care to perform them. 
We cultivate a spirit of harmony that the enemy of 
souls may acquire no advantage over us. And as a 
large portion of our work as adopted masons lies in 
acquiring the doctrines and temper of Jesus Christ, 
whom truly to know is everlasting life, we often unite 
to address the heavenly throne and to plead with God 
that the very spirit of faith and wisdom may descend 
upon us and make our meeting place a place like 
heaven. In such a prayer let us now with cheerful 
faith combine. 

Then followed the prayer, "Source of all Wisdom." 
Both stellse and protectors might pass through the 
initiatory ceremonies, but the iive degrees were only 
conferred upon stellse, and in conferring them one 
of the Correspondents represented the candidate. The 
degrees, with the exception of that of Martha, were 
given in dramatic form, and, it will be seen, required 
considerable talent. 

ADAH. 

In the degree of Jephthah's daughter, the candi- 
date being announced as in readiness, the five Corre- 
spondents retired to receive her, when she was ad- 
dressed : 

Luna — My dear sister! you are about to represent 
Adah, the devoted woman, the daughter of Jeph- 
thah, the Gileadtie, who resigned her life to fulfil 
the oath of her father. Carefully observe whatever 
passes under your notice, my dear sister, and let the 
impressive lessons of this degree sink deeply into your 
heart. 

The covenant of adoption was rehearsed and as- 
sented to, after which the ladies entered and re- 
mained by the door. Behind a curtain which divided 
the hall, a sound as of trampling feet and music was 
heard. 

Luna — Hosanna! they come! they come! The 
prayer of my father has prevailed with God. He has 



RITUALS. 77 

given Mm the victory. Hosanna! they come! they 
come ! Oh the raptures of this hour ! For this have I 
waited; for this my prayers have ascended day and 
night to heaven. Hosanna! they come! they come! 
Soon I shall meet my father, no more to be separated. 
Soon I shall crown him with this wreath of triumph 
and my nation will hail him as their deliverer. Ho- 
sanna ! they come ! they come ! On the brow of yonder 
hill I already see their banners and the glitter of their 
spears. I hear their music echoing from the mountain 
side. Oh God of Israel ! thou alone art God, and there 
is none other ! 

The curtain is now drawn aside, and Heleon, who 
represents Jephthab, enters with a sword in his hand, 
accompanied by the other Pillars, 

Heleon — Once more I see my native village and 
the dwelling place of my child. Soon I shall greet 
her, and, in the history of my exploits and the joys of 
victory, forget all the dangers to which I have been 
exposed. Beloved Adah ! how must your gentle heart 
now bound with joy. But, here I pause to recall the 
solemn vow I made when last I stood upon this spot. 
As I went forth, in the might of Israel's God, to re- 
pel the hosts of Ammon, I swore with uplifted hand, 
when I returned home in peace, whatsoever should 
come forth from the doors of my house to meet me, 
it should be the Lord's and I would offer it up for a 
burnt offering. Now I pause to learn what shall be 
the victim. The pet lamb of my beloved Adah was 
wont to run and meet me when I returned from 
the mountain chase. It were a harsh welcome to my 
daughter to slay her gentle favorite; yet my oath is 
registered in heaven. I am becoming anxious. Trum- 
pets, sound again! that Adah may know of my ap- 
proach and send out some messenger to meet me. 

The trampling of feet and music are renewed. The 
ladies who have remained near the door now move 
slowly toward Heleon. As his eye falls upon them, 
he starts in anguish, cries aloud: Alas! my daugh- 
ter! and then, falling upon his knees, buries his face 
in his hands. The ladies approach him, and 

Luna — My father, why this distress? 

Heleon — Alas! my daughter! 



78 RITUALS. 

Luna — What lias thy daughter done to distress 
thee ? 

Heleon — Thou hast brought me very low! 

Luna — Father, father, what cruel words are 1 these? 

Heleon — Thou art one of them that trouble me; 
for I have opened my mouth to the Lord, and I can 
not turn back. 

Heleon arises, and after a short pause 1 continues 
slowly and solemnly: 

Daughter! beloved and only child! when I went 
forth at the head of the army of Israel, I felt that in 
God alone could I hope for victory. Therefore I con- 
secrated myself in solemn prayer to Him. And I 
vowed a vow that should I return victorious and in 
peace, whatsoever should come forth to meet me 
should be the Lord's — a victim — a burnt offering! 
Oh my daughter! how little did I anticipate this re- 
sult! How much better had I perished by the sword 
of Ammon! Alas, my daughter! my vow is registered 
in heaven. My soul is perjured. I shall be miserable 
both in this world and in the next; for I can not, can 
not take thy life. 

Luna — My father, if thou hast opened thy mouth 
unto the Lord, do to me according to that which hath 
proceeded out of thy mouth. Better that I should 
die, dear father, than that thou lose thy soul. Yea, 
rather a thousand deaths. I will die, and our people 
shall see that Adah was worthy to be the daughter of 
Jephthah, the deliverer of his people:. 

She takes the sword from her father's hand and 
examines the blade. Then, with a pathetic impulse, 
she adds : 

But oh, my father, in this first hour of your re- 
turn, while the nation is exulting in your victory, it is 
hard to die, to-day ! I can not submit my neck to this 
sword to-day. Give me a little time to contemplate 
this awful change and prepare for it. I ask for two 
months to fit my mind for death. Let me go in the 
mountains in the company of these maidens, for two 
months, and I will surely return. 

Heleon — Go, my daughter, and the God of truth 
go with thee. 

The ladies return to the door, while Heleon 



RITUALS. 79 

remains in his place. After a few minutes' separation, 
they return, Jephthah's daughter being crowned with 
a wreath: 

Luna — Father, I am come again, agreeably to my 
pledge. In the caves of the mountains, in answer to 
my earnest prayers, I have found resignation and 
peace. I am come, willingly, I trust, to fulfil your 
vow, and give myself a victim. For this purpose, 
with this wreath that I prepared to celebrate your 
victory, I am crowned. My father, do not afflict your 
heart too much at my sacrifice. Be resigned to the 
will of God-. And when you think of me, and remem- 
ber how willingly I suffered this, to save you from 
dishonor, do not forget, in your anguish at my loss, 
the splendid triumph God granted you in answer to 
your vow. Father — friends — life — farewell. A long, 
a last farewell. 

She folds her hands resignedly, and casts her eyes 
upward : 

Do not delay the. fatal blow. 

Heleon — My daughter! there is another world, 
where the errors of this life shall be forgiven, and 
sorrow lost in universal joy. I will meet you there. 

Casts the veil over her face. All present cover their 
faces with their veils. She instantly throws her veil 
back upon the floor, they imitating her, and speaks 
with great resolution: 

Luna — Nay, father, I did not consent to this. I 
can not permit my eyes to be covered. I will die in 
the light. 

She again folds her arms, and looks upward. He 
picks up the veil, and, while again casting it over her 
face, says: 

Heleon — My daughter, I can not strike you while 
your eyes are fixed upon mine. 

She throws it off as before, but with more deter- 
mination, and says: 

Luna — Then I will turn them away from you; I 
will fix them upon yonder mountain tops, where I 
found peace. But you shall not put me to death in 
the dark. 

Turns from him and folds her arms as before. He 



80 RITUALS. 

regains the veil, and going behind her says, while he 
covers her face the third time: 

Heleon — Do not disobey me thus, my daughter ! It 
is necessary you should consent to this. 

She throws it from her face, but retains the end of 
it in her hands, grasping it with much force. Turn- 
ing toward him, with a firm and steady look and 
voice, she says: 

Luna — I declare to you, my father, I will never 
consent to this. To die with my face covered, like a 
criminal, would be a mark of perpetual infamy and 
disgrace — a stain upon my memory. This multitude, 
who have come to witness my death, would be per- 
suaded that I am suffering the penalty of my own 
crime. I will not thus be debased, and my name go 
down to the future dishonored. I die innocent, I die 
not for myself, but for another, even for you. I die 
to maintain your integrity — and if you will not suffer 
me to preserve my good name, upon your head be the 
penalty, for I will not submit to death at all. 

She casts her eyes upward. 

Heleon — Let it be so then. Have your desire. 

Here ends the ceremony. Heleon invites the can- 
didate to be seated. 

RUTH. 

After an introduction similar to the preceding, and 
the repetition of the covenant of adoption, Areme, 
who represents !N"aomi, addresses Flora, who repre- 
sents Ruth : 

Areme — My daughter, we have nothing left us 
now, but to trust in God. Our money is expended ; — 
our last morsel of food is consumed; — I have called 
at every house where a friend or relative once re- 
sided, and have sought relief, but in vain. My friends 
do not recognize my claim. My relatives are dead, or 
the few who survive have forgotten me. All my 
humiliation has been in vain. The Almighty hath 
dealt very bitterly with me. I pray you, then, my 
daughter, no longer attempt to share my cheerless lot, 
but rather return to your own princely home and 
friends, and be happy there. You have already sac- 



RITUALS. 81 

rificed too much for me. Go, dear Kuth, and leave 
me to rny fate. 

Flora — Intreat me not to leave thee or to return 
froni following after thee; for whither thou goest I 
will go, and where thou lodgest I will lodge ; thy peo- 
ple shall be my people, and thy God my God; where 
thou diest will I die, and there will I be buried; the 
Lord do so to me and more also, if aught but death 
part thee and me! I will go, my mother, into the 
barley fields and glean. It can not be, but that some 
liberal man among this people may yet take compas- 
sion upon our distress, and afford me the means of 
maintaining you; while I have the strength to toil for 
your subsistence, you shall not suffer want. Give me 
your blessing then, my mother, and let me go. 

Areme — Nay, my daughter, I will go. Such hard- 
ships are not for you. Our long journey from Moab 
has already exhausted your strength, and you could 
not endure it. So delicately nurtured as you have 
been, the hot sun in the barley fields would overpower 
you ; I am more accustomed to toil, and I will go. 

Mora — The strength of a good resolution will sup- 
port me. Give me your blessing and let me go. 

Areme — The Lord recompense thy work, and a 
full reward be given thee of the; Lord God of Israel, 
under whose wings thou art come to trust. 

The ladies now move toward the curtain, which is 
thrown aside, and they behold a representation of a 
barley field, in which workmen and gleaners are en- 
gaged. Upon the floor appear sheaves and loose straw. 
The Pillars are observed to be arranging the sheaves 
— one of them, the overseer, having a sickle in his 
hand. Flora picks up a few bits of straw with ap- 
parent fatigue, and then rising, speaks, as if to her- 
self: 

Flora — I feel that Naomi spake truly. The sun 
glares upon my head like a sheet of flame. The stub- 
ble scorches my feet like coals of fire. My heart be- 
gins to sink within me. I feel that I must faint. I 
will return to Naomi. Oh, God of Israel, for whom 
I have forsaken all things, witness my distress, and 
hear the widow's cry ! Give me help ! 

Goes near the door and reclines against the wall as 



82 RITUALS. 

if exhausted. Philomath, who represents Boaz, and 
who has been thus far in the background, out of view, 
now comes among the reapers with a basket in his 
hand, and speaks to the overseer: 

Philomath — It is well. The workmen have done a 
good task to-day. Call them around me now, and let 
them partake of the refreshments I have provided. — 
Observes Ruth; — But what- — who — whose damsel is 
this? 

Herald — It is the Moabitish damsel who came hack 
with Naomi, out of the country of Moab — and she 
said to me, I pray you let me glean and gather after 
the reapers, among the sheaves. So she came, and 
hath continued here, even from the morning until 
now. 

Philomath — She appears to be fatigued. She is 
quite exhausted. 

Herald — Sir, it is plain she has not been accus- 
tomed to hardships like these. I observed early this 
morning, how painfully the stubble scorched her feet, 
and with what difficulty she gathered up the glean- 
ings. And as the sun came over us, she has drooped 
more and more, until, like a stricken lily, she bows 
her head, and can do no more. Sir, observe her with 
those two handfuls of barley; it is all she has gathered 
to-day. 

Philomath — God has sent her to us that she may 
find relief. I will invite her to partake of these re- 
freshments. 

He advances towards her. As she observes him ap- 
proaching, she raises her head, and looking towards 
heaven, speaks as if to herself : 

Flora — It is the owner of the field. What should 
he want of me but to insult and reproach me? O cruel 
people ! shall I not find one friendly soul among you ? 
He takes me to be an intruder — peradventure a thief 
■ — and he will drive me from the field. Oh God of 
Israel, for whom I have forsaken all things, witness 
now my distress, and hear the widow's cry! Give me 
help! 

Holds up her two handfuls of barley to show him 
that she is but a poor gleaner, and gazes intently 



RITUALS. 83 

towards heaven. Pliiloniatli conies before her and 
speaks: 

Philomath — Ruth, it has been fully showed me all 
that thou hast done unto thy mother-in-law since the 
death of thine husband, and how thou hast left thy 
father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, 
and art come unto a people that thou knewest not 
heretofore. The Lord recompense thy work, and a 
full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel, 
under whose wings thou dost trust. Come with me, 
and partake of the refreshments which I have pro- 
vided for my reapers. 

They all gather around the basket and partake, ac- 
costing one another with cheerful words. After a 
minute or two Philomath addresses Herald: 

Philomath — Let her glean, even among the 
sheaves, and reproach her not; and let fall also some 
of the handfuls of purpose for her; and leave them, 
that she may glean them and rebuke her not. 

ESTHER. 

After introduction and rehearsal of the covenant of 
adoption: 

Hebe (who represents Esther) — All is now in readi- 
ness for the effort. I have done all I could to prepare 
for this trial, and nothing remains but to make the 
attempt. By prayer and fasting, for three days and 
nights I have endeavored to secure the favor of God. 
For is it not for his dear sake that I am thus imperil- 
ing all that I hold dear? In this cruel edict my life 
is not attempted; nor should I personally suffer this 
dreadful penalty. But, oh my people! the hunted 
exiles of Juidah! doomed nation of God! to what a 
fate are you exposed? How can I live and see you 
destroyed? Better that we all perish together, and 
the faithfulness of death seal the friendship cemented 
in life. This is the last day that remains for me to 
accomplish my purpose, and even now it is full late. 
I will go in unto the king, which is not according to 
the law, and if I perish, I perish. Maidens, robe me 
for the sacrifice. Give me a garb of purest white, 
and the golden crown upon my head. Peradventure, 



84 RITUALS. 

when the king beholds me thus arrayed, he will be 
reminded of the solemn vow which, in years gone by, 
he made me, and I shall accomplish my purpose. 

The attendants tie the white scarf over her left 
shoulder, so that it crosses her breast to the right side, 
and place the crown upon her head. 

Hebe — Now, my maidens, let us move forward, 
and while we approach the gate of the palace in which 
life or death awaits us, let your hearts, with mine, 
be directed to that throne whence cometh all our help. 

They move slowly forward. 

Hebe — Be pleased, oh Lord, to deliver me: oh 
Lord make haste to help me. Withhold not thou thy 
tender mercy from me, oh Lord ; let thy loving kind- 
ness and thy truth continually preserve me. Why 
art thou cast down oh my soul ? and why art thou dis- 
quieted within me ? hope thou in God : for I will yet 
praise him who is the help of my countenance and 
my God. 

Marching two and two they approach the guards, 
who are seated in front of the curtain. The guards 
rise, cross their swords before her, and : 

Philomath — Back! you can not pass here! Back! I 
say. Do you not know that this is the king's palace 
and that we are his guards? 

Hebe — Stand aside! I command you. I am your 
queen, and will enter! Guards, stand aside! 

Philomath — Madam, I recognize you, and respect 
you, both for your station and your character. Your 
kindness and affability to all your subjects have en- 
deared your memory throughout the nation. I know 
that your word here is law. Yet it is at your peril 
if you enter this place. To-day is the grand council 
of the nation. With the king are assembled the 
princes and rulers of the land, and his majesty will on 
this occasion, more than all others, be offended at 
your intrusion. I pray you, royal madam, do not 
pass. 

Hebe — Stand aside, I have estimated the peril and 
I will undertake it. Let me pass! 

Herald — Royal madam! it is an inviolable law of 
the palace, that no person shall enter unless sum- 
moned by the king, under penalty of death. I entreat 



RITUALS. 85 

you to be warned before your blood stains those 
walls. If you enter, it is to certain death. 

Hebe — Let me pass, and no longer delay my en- 
terprise. The responsibility be upon my own head. 

Herald — Pass then, and may God protect you ! 

The curtain is here drawn aside and exhibits the 
grand council. The king is seated; the other officers 
are standing on his right and left; he wears a crown 
upon his head, and bears in his right hand a scepter; 
as the ladies enter, he is speaking to those around 
him: 

Yerger — As to this accursed nation, let their de- 
struction be sharp and sure. See that no lingering 
slaughter or protracted death makes their fate uncer- 
tain ; but in one day, yea, if it be possible, in one hour, 
let the sword reach them, old and young, until not 
one be left. Then shall my kingdom 

At this instant his eye falls upon Hebe, and he ab- 
ruptly pauses. He rises to his feet, his countenance 
expressing the greatest surprise and anger. 

Yerger — What means this intrusion? Guards, upon 
your lives be this act. Are my strictest orders thus 
to be disregarded? Were it my mother, she should 
die. Take her at once to the courtyard and put her to 
death. 

The guards rush upon her and seize her by each 
hand to lead her away. She accompanies them a few 
paces, then snatches her hands from theirs, turns to- 
wards the king, and * * * * * The 
king speaks quickly, and in a softened tone: 

Yerger — Stop guards, release her. Return to your 
posts. Esther, my queen, approach hither and receive 
my pardon. 

She advances to him * * * * 

Yerger — What wilt thou, Queen Esther? and what 
is thy request? it shall even be granted thee to the 
half of the kingdom. 

MARTHA. 

This degree is communicated without ceremonial; 
and to all the candidates simultaneously. This was 
found necessary, as the principal male character in the 
dialogue would necessarily have represented the Lord 



86 RITUALS. 

Jesus Christ, whom to attempt thus to personate 
would be blasphemous, 

ELECTA. 

In this Heleon represented St. John, and Areme, 
Electa. 

Herald, who is on the inner side of the veil, is 
heard as if reading from a letter he has just received : 

That the new religion be crushed out of every na- 
tion where the Roman rule prevails; that its votaries, 
one and all, be required to renounce it or be merci- 
lessly sacrificed; that the Roman soldiers — ah, cruel 
band — visit the dwelling of every suspected Christian, 
and see that he acquit himself of the suspicion by 
trampling upon the cross. Take notice, Most Wor- 
shipful Grand Master, and govern yourself accord- 
ingly. 

Ah, cruel Emperor! Ah, hapless people! Alas, the 
persecuted church of Christ, what will avail you now? 
people of the living Saviour, whither now will you 
flee? Is there no rest but the grave for the friends 
of Jesus? And you, pious Electa, true-hearted sister 
of Christ, delight oi all who love the Lord, what will 
be your fate now? How will you sustain this dread- 
ful trial ? Many will deny in these latter days of per- 
secution, and purchase a miserable life by denying 
Him who gave his life as a ransom for many. Will 
your name be added to that traitorous band? I trem- 
ble to consider it. Yet, how many, who have been 
devoted to< him, in the day of ease and quiet, after- 
ward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the 
Word's sake, are offended. I am oppressed with 
anxiety concerning this woman. If Electa is found to 
shrink under this calamity, who, then, will be faith- 
ful? Aged and infirm as I am, under the yoke of five 
score years, I will arise and go to her dwelling, to 
satisfy my mind that she is faithful. And that she 
may not easily recognize me until I have communi- 
cated this message, I will disguise myself in the garb 
of a Roman soldier, the bitterest enemy of the cross, 
and thus present myself at her door. 

The curtain is now drawn aside and exhibits Herald 



RITUALS. 87 

armed with a sword. He walks slowly, as if with 
weariness and pain, towards the door of entrance. Ar- 
rived there, he halts and soliloquizes : 

The task is more than I reckoned it. Had the 
distance been a little greater I could not have accom- 
plished it. Five score years have done their work too 
faithfully for such journeys as these. I will apply 
for admission. — He knocks. — Dusty and disguised as 
I am in this garb, Electa will surely be unable to 
recognize me. I am quite exhausted. 

He leans upon the sword in his left hand, by the 
side of the door. The ladies approach him. Areme, 
who represents Electa, observes him narrowly and 
halts. She soliloquizes: 

A soldier! A Roman soldier! The butchers of 
Christ, and the insatiable ravagers of his flock — what 
does he here? AVhy has he chosen to call upon 
me? But my duty is plain, whatever may be his mo- 
tives, and I will dispense to him christian hospitality. 
I perceive he is very aged and infirm. He appears 
overcome with heat and fatigue. I will hesitate no 
longer. Perhaps God has sent him here for his soul's 
good. — She goes to him and takes him kindly by the 
hand. — My aged brother, in the name of the Lord 
Jesus Christ, welcome to my dwelling. Let it be your 
home while you tarry here. Enter. The liberal hand 
of Providence has endowed me richly with the means 
of hospitality. Enter, and, as if sent by Him, par- 
take freely of his benefits. — She leads him a little way 
and seats him. — Let me refresh you with, water. — She 
brings him water, of which he drinks. — The day is 
hot, the roads are hard and dusty, your journey has 
been too great for you. It was often so with, our 
blessed Saviour, who, in his ministry, used to pass this 
way when I was but a child. Hungry and thirsty 
and weary as you are, he has often realized in this 
very dwelling how bitter is the lot of man. !N"ow, my 
brother, you seem refreshed ; the color mounts to your 
cheek and light comes again to your eye. Does the 
name of Christ bring such animation to your soul? 
ah, I have experienced its benefits. Cheer up, then, 
cheer up, aged friend. There shall be nothing want- 
ing for your comfort here. The love of Christ con- 



•88 RITUALS. 

strainetk me, and whatever I have is your own. 
Speak, brother, and command me what I shall do for 
yon. 

Herald — I am hungry. Since the morning watch 
I have not broken bread. Yet a few crusts will suf- 
fice me, and I will be thankful. 

Areme — No crusts from me. While Electa has an 
abounding Providence for her own support, the way- 
farer whom Christ may direct hither shall not have 
crusts. — She presents him a dish covered with food. — 
Take of the best my house affords and welcome. — 
After a few minutes she brings him a. cup of wine. — ■ 
Accept this cup of the richest wine my house af- 
fords. May its generous flavor give you new strength 
and prove, at least, the earnest of your welcome. 
— After he has drank she continues. — But what fur- 
ther token of hospitality can I offer you? Speak, 
brother, and command me, what I shall do< for you. 

Herald draws forth an empty purse and hands to 
her. — My purse is empty. My home far away. I 
have but little strength to labor for money. Give me 
a few farthings to enable me to reach the next vil- 
lage and I will be thankful. 

Areme — Nay, not a few farthings. — She fills the 
purse as if with gold. — But rather let me furnish you 
the means for your entire journey. And when you 
shall once again reach that distant home, may you 
find its loved ones all in health and prepared to greet 
you. — She returns the purse. — But all your wants are 
not yet supplied. Speak again, brother, and command 
me, what shall I do for you? 

Herald — My raiment is old and worn. Yet I shall 
not much longer need a covering, therefore, if your 
husband or servants have any cast-off garments you 
would bestow upon me, I would be thankful. 

Areme — Not so, my brother, I will deal more 
bountifully with you than you ask. — She presents 
him with a bundle, as if filled with clothing. — Here 
is the best in our wardrobe, and may they give you 
comfort and warmth until you reach your distant 
home and friends. But is there not something further 
I can do for you? Think: I should feel loth to know 



RITUALS. 89 

that any left me in distress while I have the means 
for their relief. 

Herald — ISTo, kind lady, nothing further. All that 
I was in want of has been supplied me, and for your 
generous bounty believe me I am thankful. But 
now, that I am refreshed and able to deliver my mes- 
sage, I will inform you what is my business in this 
part of the country. The Emperor of Rome has been 
pleased to issue an edict to the effect "that the new 
religion be crushed out from every nation where the 
Roman rule prevails; that its votaries, one and all, be 
required to renounce it or be mercilessly sacrificed; 
that the Roman soldiers visit the dwelling of every 
suspected Christian, and see that he acquit himself of 
the suspicion by trampling upon the cross." I have, 
therefore, come to enquire of you, as of one who is 
best acquainted throughout this region, are there any 
Christians among your neighbors, and, if so, to de- 
mand their names. — He looks her steadily in the face. 
She returns his look with a surprised air, but makes 
no reply. After a brief pause he continues : — Madam, 
there is something suspicious in your silence. Why 
should you hesitate to reply? Are there any Chris- 
tians in your f amity? Your manner would seem to 
indicate it. Give me their names, or you will suffer 
the penalty as though you were one in person. — He 
again pauses and looks in her face as before; but she 
makes no reply. He rises and continues: — Madam, 
can it be that you are a Christian? one so wealthy, 
so accomplished, so hospitable. Can it be possible 
that you have subjected yourself to such a horrid 
doom? But no, there is a means of escape; there is 
a method, easy and sure, by which this terrible pun- 
ishment may be avoided. Madam, you have been 
kind to me in my hour of distress, and I will show you 
that I am grateful. — He draws from his pocket a 
small black cross. — According to the terms of the law, 
whoever is suspected of being a Christian, may acquit 
himself of the suspicion by trampling on the cross. 
You will preserve your life, your property, and the 
lives of your husband and children by casting this 
upon the floor and putting your foot upon it. Then 



90 RITUALS. 

I will go forth and declare that you have submitted to 
the law and renounced the Christian religion. Take it. 
All this time she has not ceased to look him sternly 
and indignantly in the face. But now she takes the 
cross from his hand, her countenance changes to ten- 
derness, she presses the cross ardently to her lips and 
bosom; then she speaks: — Sir, are you a demon in the 
form of humanity, that you strive to imperil my soul 
with these allurements? and think you I am terrified 
with your threats ? why, what is there in all you have 
said to move me? have I not lived fifteen years daily 
expecting, waiting, desiring this message, and shall it 
shake me now? You ask me, too, if I am a Christian, 
and you profess to be astonished to discover that I am 
a Christian; did I not meet you at my threshold and 
welcome you in the name of Jesus Christ? Have I 
not fed you and tended upon your wants for the sake 
of Jesus Christ? What was there in you or me inde- 
pendent of my faith in the Crucified One, which 
should prompt me to such actions? Cease, then your 
allurements, and spare me the further recital of my 
perils. I am a Christian. This family, one and all, 
are Christians. One and all we have long been pre- 
pared to render up all things for the sake of Him who 
gave all things to us; go on then, and do your duty. 
Spare no part of it for the remembrance of my hos- 
pitality, and God, for Christ's sake, will enable me to 
do mine. — She places herself in the position * * *. 
Herald lays aside his sword and speaks kindly to 
her: — Electa, my sister, tried and true, look upon me 
again. Do you not know me? I am John. 

Areme — John! It is indeed! Oh sir, how could 
you try my feelings in this cruel manner ? 

Herald — That I might learn the strength of your 
religious character. I confess, my dear sister, that I 
feared this alarming and most unexpected intelligence 
might shake your faith, and I disguised myself in this 
manner to try you unobserved; but all is clear now, 
your gold is altogether pure; you are the fairest 
among ten thousand and altogether lovely. Electa, 
in a few days you may expect this scene, which has 
tried you so, will be realized. The soldiers will come, 
and the rest will follow. I see in store for you a ter- 



RITUALS. 91 

rible sacrifice and a cruel death. But you need no 
pity. Your reward is in heaven, and soon shall I meet 
you there to rehearse the events which are now nigh 
at hand. Electa, we will masonictilly embalm your 
religious fortitude and your triumphant death. As 
Grand Master of Masons I will institute a degree to 
be entitled after your name, which shall perpetuate 
your history among us while there is a woman's eye 
to weep or a man's heart to feel for the sorrows of 
suffering virtue. 

Accompanying the degrees were lectures much 
longer than those contained in the present ritual, 
which were all given by Heleon. Jephthah was de- 
scribed as "a pious man, a devoted father, and exem- 
plary mason;" Mahlon, "a devoted freemason," and 
in the same category came Boaz, Ahasuerus, and 
Lazarus; while the husband of Electa was said to be 
the successor of St. John in the grand mastership. 

MOSAIC SECOND. 

This was substantially a reprint of the Mosaic 
Book, words being substituted for symbols, and allu- 
sion to Part Three omitted, as were, also the Tuilleur, 
and the illustrations of the manner of giving the 
signs. 

MORRIS'S MANUAL. 

This was prepared solely for communicating the 
degrees, and opened with an explanation of freema- 
sonry and its benefits to woman ; the obligation admin- 
istered being one of secrecy only. The signet was 
explained, together with the signs, followed by the 
lectures, which were adapted from those contained 
in the Mosaic Book. Each was followed by an expla- 
nation of the appropriate signs, emblems, and colors, 
which were fully described in the manuscript accom- 
panying it. 

BOOK OF INSTRUCTIONS, 1861. 

Tihis was to be used in connection with Morris's 
Manual, and provided for the communicating of the 



92 RITUALS. 

degrees in families, concerning which see chapter II. 
The opening ode was: 

O, that in this world of weeping, 

Widow's tear and orphan's cry, 
Hearts their term of trial keeping, 

Would but melt in sympathy. 
O, that we, each sister, brother, 

Traveling on the self-same road, 
In our love for one another, 

Would but love the love of God. 

For that love would surely teach us 

Ne'er to crush a burdened heart, 
By the tender thoughts that reach us 

When we see a tear-drop start ; 
And the lonely, poor and saddened, 

In their almost cheerless grief, 
By our liberal bounty gladdened, 

Would acknowledge the relief. 

Here, then, met in social pleasure, 

Here before the Word divine, 
While our life contains the treasure, 

Let us in this covenant join — 
Tears to dry, to comfort sighing, 

Gentle words and smiles to strew — 
By the sick, and by the dying, 

Patient, Godlike love to show. 

Then, though we must part like others, 

And the dead be joined among, 
In the hearts of sisters, brothers, 

We shall be remembered long. 
Those that speak of us shall name us 

As the dead to memory dear, 
And the page of friendship claim us 

Worthy of a grateful tear. 

This was followed by Scripture reading, it being 
recommended that passages be selected which refer 
to the histories of Jephthah's daughter, Ruth, Esther 
and Martha; also the more pathetic passages from 
the gospels, such as the raising of the son of the 
widow of Nain, Christ's agony in the garden, Christ 
blessing little children, the crucifixion, etc. 



fctfHMSHIP fi 6 ^^ 




FAMILY MEMBERSHIP BOARD. 



RITUALS. 93 

In this work a social grip and family hail were 
used, but I have been nnable to find that any one 
now living has a knowledge as to what they were. 
The membership board (see illustration), was filled 
up by writing on the under side, about half way from 
the center to the circumference, thus: "Mary A. Car- 
neal," in plain round hand, taking great pains to spell 
each name correctly. Directly over each lady's name, 
upon the upper side of the ray write the name of the 
gentleman through whom she is adopted as a sister in 
adopted masonry, thus: "John A. Carneal." This 
being done, write in the broad part of the ray near 
the center of the picture, the class of ladies to which 
each lady belongs, viz.: "Wife, widow, sister, or 
daughter." 

The Patron and Patroness were the sole judges 
as to the candidates, both for the Eastern Star degree 
and for membership in the family, although they 
were compelled to recognize an objection from a 
member. The Eastern Star degree was first commu- 
nicated as per Morris's Manual. The conferring of 
the Eamily degree commenced by the introduction 
of the candidate by the Conductress, as follows: 

Enlightened Patron : It becomes my pleasant duty 
to introduce to you our sister in adoptive masonry, 
Mrs. A B . This lady has received the de- 
gree of the Eastern Star, having first made an invio- 
lable pledge of secrecy according to our rules. She 
has heard with emotion the painful yet glorious his- 
tory of Jephthah's daughter; she has contemplated 
the noble self-devotion of Kuth and Esther; she has 
witnessed the tears of the faithful Martha, and has 
paid the tribute of her own generous sympathy to the 
martyrdom of the christian Electa; she desires now 
to make one of this family of the Eastern Star, where 
such histories are studied and such virtues emulated, 
and she has entered amongst us, determined to bear 
her part in this good work. 



94 RITUALS. 

To this the Patron responded in much the same 
style as Heleon addressed the candidate in the Mosaic 
Book: "We hail with true pleasure/' etc. 

Every female member of the family was requested 
to select an emblem, and the Recorder was required to 
keep a book in which the emblems were recorded. 

The ceremony of selection was as follows : 

Esteemed sister, the language of flowers has been 
studied and applied in all ages. The earth is vocal with 
the praises of God from the tongues of unnumbered 
blossoms in vale and meadow, by the brookside and 
upon the mountains; and these voices are heard and 
echoed in the hearts of all who in every nation have 
learned to adore Him. In our society the graces of 
Jephthah's daughter, Ruth, Esther, Martha and 
Electa, are inculcated by means of emblems selected 
from the fields of nature. 

The character of Jephthah's daughter is illustrated 
by the blue violet. This beautiful modest flower, in 
its bashful timidity, conceals itself amidst foliage from, 
the face of the sun. Of the blue violet the poet has 
happily said: 

I know thou art oft 

Passed carelessly by, 
And the hue so soft 

Of thine azure eye 
Gleams unseen, unsought, in its leafy bower, 
While the heartless prefer some statelier flower, 
That they eagerly cull, and when faded fling 
Away with rude hand, as a worthless thing. 
Not such is thy fate; not thy beauty's gift 
Alone, bids thee from thy bower be reft ; — 
Not thy half-closing dewy and deep blue eye, 
But the charm that doth not with beauty die; 
'Tis thy mild, soft fragrance makes thee so dear, 
Thou loveliest gem of the floral year! 

Such was the character of the Israelitish maiden, 
Jephthah's daughter. Modest and bashful, shrinking 
from the gaze of men, her life had been passed in 
the retirement of her father's dwelling until the sub- 
lime occasion called her forth which is so beautifully 



RITUALS. 95 

explained in our tradition. The blue violet therefore 
is sacred to the memory of Jephthah's daughter. 

The character of Ruth is illustrated by the sun- 
flower. This broad and stately blossom, which steadily 
faces the sun from his oriental to his occidental 
course, is an emblem of lofty and pure thoughts. 

As the poet expresses it: 

Herein will I imitate the sun; 
Who doth permit the base contagious clouds 
To smother up his beauty from the world, 
That when he please again to be himself, 
Being wanted, he may be more wondered at 
By breaking through the foul and ugly mists 
Of vapors that seem to strangle him. 

Such was the character of the Moabitish damsel, 
who came "from Moab's hills to Bethlehem's gates." 

In her days of prosperity her wealth and rank had 
but gilded the bright purity of her soul; and in her 
poverty and desertion, when toiling, a poor gleaner 
in the fields of Boaz, the unalloyed graces of Ruth 
shone out with the halo of lofty and pure thoughts. 
The sunflower, therefore, is sacred to the memory 
of Ruth. 

The character of Esther is illustrated by the white 
lily. All nations agree in making this flower the em- 
blem of purity, and its beauty and delicacy have ever 
been the theme of admiration from the time of Solo- 
mon to the present day. Even the divine Saviour 
points to it with admiration, saying, "Behold the lilies 
of the field; I say unto you that Solomon in all his 
glory was not arrayed like one of these." The poet 
has happily declared : 

Fair white lilies having birth 
In their native genial earth: 
These in sweet and queenly grace, 
Match the maiden's form and face. 

Such was the character of Esther, the matchless 
queen of Persia, fairest among the women of the land, 
pre-eminent in intellectual gifts, the pride of the 
down-trodden people of God, exposed to all the temp- 
tations of pride, rank and a corrupt court, she still 



96 RITUALS. 

retained that purity of character which had elevated 
her at the first, and when the time of trial came, her 
heroism and self-devotion gained the favor of the king 
and saved her people from destruction. The white 
lily, therefore, is sacred to the memory of Esther. 

The character of Martha is illustrated by the pine 
sprig. This, in masonry, reminds us of the immor- 
tality of the soul and the resurrection of the body, 
the two sublimest lessons the mind of man can con- 
template. The history of Martha, as given in our tra- 
ditions, is that of a young woman whose faith in 
Christ enabled her to resist the despondency that 
death had thrown around her, and to believe that her 
brother would rise again under the Almighty voice. 
Her faith was duly rewarded and her heart was made 
happy in the reunion. The pine sprig, therefore, is 
sacred to the memory of Martha. 

The character of Electa is illustrated by the red 
rose. In producing the rose, nature appears to have 
exhausted herself by her prodigality in attempting to 
create so fine a specimen of freshness, of beauty in 
form, of exquisite perfume', of brilliance of color 
and of grace. The rose adorns the whole earth as the 
commonest of flowers. It is the emblem of all ages, 
the interpreter of all our sentiments, it illustrates 
alike our happiness and our sorrows. Its lessons are 
sung by the poet when he says: 

Tis not alone in the flush of morn, 

In the cowslip- bell or the blossom-thorn, 

In noon's high hour or twilight hush, 

In the shadowy stream of the floweret's blush, 

Or in aught that beautiful nature gives, 

That the delicate spirit of beauty lives. 

Oh, no, it lives and breathes and lies 
In a home more pure than the morning skies; 
In the innocent heart it loves to dwell, 
When it comes with a sigh or a tear to tell, 
Sweet visions that flow from the fount of love, 
To mingle with all that is pure above. 

Such was the character of Electa, combining all the 
meek domestic virtues with the highest and noblest 
heroism that is recorded in the books of history. In 



RITUALS. 97 

the pursuit of what she deemed her christian duty, 
she cheerfully surrendered all things, sealing the cov- 
enant she had made with her heart's blood. The red 
rose, therefore, is sacred to the memory of Electa. 

Choose then, my esteemed sister, which of these 
emblems, the blue violet, the sunflower, the white lily, 
the pine sprig, or the red rose you will adopt as 
yours. 

The choice seemed to be deemed a weighty one, 
as the lady was allowed three months in which to 
make her selection. This ceremony does not seem to 
have any points of union with the rest of the work 
and was rather meaningless. 

For an additional ceremony of the family see the 
heading, Banquets. 

ROSARY. 

This was a revised form for communicating the 
degrees, a pledge of secrecy only being required. 
The welcoming ode was as follows: 

A welcome and a greeting now, 

To gentle friends and sisters true, 

Around the place where mason's bow, 
And pay their homage due ; 

On checkered floor, 'neath starry sky, 

Welcome sweet friends of masonry. 

To her who finds a father here; 

Or brother's strong and trusty hand ; 
To her who mourns the lost and dear, 

Once cherished in our band; 
To her who husband's love doth own, 
Greeting and welcome, every one. 

Welcome the light our emblems shed ; 

Welcome the hope yon volume gives — 
Welcome the love our covenants spread, 

The wages each receives ; 
And when is past life's toilsome week, 
Welcome the home that masons seek. 

The several lectures as in the manual were revised 
and somewhat shortened, and the subjects of the de- 
grees were given as "The Tradition of the. Veil;" 

7 



98 RITUALS. 

"The Tradition of the Barley Field;" "The Tradi- 
tion of the Crown, Robe and Sceptre;" "The Tra- 
dition of the Uplift Hands," and "The Tradition 
of the Martyr's Cross." Each degree had a christian 
application which was fully explained. The evening 
was closed with the following valedictory : 

Good night! the spirits of the blest and good 
From these dear halls go with you and abide: 
In hours of sorrow, hours of solitude, 
Or when the hosts of melancholy brood 
And cloud your minds, may angel spirits glide 
From the white throne and give you great delight — 
Dear friends, good night! 

Good night, good night! and joy be with you all! 
May sickness never blight, nor poverty: 
May slander's breath your spirits ne'er appall, 
May no untoward accident befall, 
But all things prosperous and joyful be: 
May morning suns rise on you fresh and bright — 
Dear friends, good night! 

Good night! in dreams, may faithful Martha come 
To tell of her Beloved, high in heaven : 
And Euth, the gleaner, from the harvest home, 
And Adah, maid immortal, from her tomb, 
Esther and true Electa, spirits bright, 
And say, Good night! 

Good night! and when the shadows of the grave 
Close in around you — when the parting breath 
Draws heavily, and unto Him who gave 
You yield the spirit, be He strong to save 
Who is our Guide and Saviour unto death : 
Then may dear friends and heavenly hopes unite, 
To say, Good night ! 

THE LADIES' FRIEND. 

This was almost an exact reprint of the Morris 
Manual, the secret work being given by initial letters, 
each of which was numbered, and a Vocabulary which 
accompanied it, being referred to by letter and num- 
ber, indicated the word. 



RITUALS. 99 

TATEM'S MONITOR. 

This was compiled largely from the Mosaic and Mor- 
ris Manual, much new matter, in the shape of opening, 
closing, and installation ceremonies being formulated; 
and, in this was first inaugurated the manner of com- 
municating the cabalistic word and motto substan- 
tially as at present. Much of the work, both original 
and reprint, was given by initial letters only, without 
any other key as to what it was. The vacant 
chairs, as in the Mosaic Book, were retained, and 
.also the dialogue as there introduced, although in an 
abbreviated form. In this was first included the in- 
struction that a mason seeing one of the signs given, 
should write his name on a card, or slip of paper, to- 
gether with the pass belonging* to the sign given. 

The officers were styled Worthy President (Ma- 
tron), Vice President (Patron), First Patron (Adah), 
Second Patron (Ruth), etc., Secretary, Treasurer, 
Conductor, Guard, and Sentinel. In 1872 the ritual 
was amended so that all of the five signs were used 
in the opening and closing ceremonies of the lodge. 

MACOY'S MANUAL. 

This was for the communicating of the degrees un- 
der a pledge of secrecy only, and was illustrated with 
& rather too suggestive picture for each degree, and 
the motto: "We have seen His Star," etc., was 
•changed to the first person singular. A grip was in- 
troduced for the first time. Concerning the origin of 
this grip the masonic department of a New York 
weekly newspaper in 1877, gave the following: 

After diligent inquiry we learn that the grip was 
invented by accident at a meeting held in Concord, 
Xew Hampshire, when brother W. S. Wolf, now of 
IsTew York city, was conferring the degree as a lec- 
ture, in 1862, prior to which time there had been 
no grip. A lady, whose husband was a mason, "rose 
in meetin',' 1 and said aloud, "Brother Wolf, you have 

LofC. 



100 RITUALS. 

forgotten to give us the grip." It was a dilemma, 
but brother Wolf was equal to the emergency, and 
gave the grip which is now so generally used ; a coun- 
cil of Eastern Star lecturers having adopted it in 
1863. 

ADOPTIVE RITE. 

This was the first ritual providing for the chapter 
form 'of organization. Jewels were prescribed for the 
officers, that for the Patron being a duplicate of the 
Matron's. Provision was also first made for a floor 
star. ' Sisters only were to be initiated; brothers, if 
elected, being only required to pledge their honor as 
master masons, in open chapter, to conform to the 
rules and regulations of the order. Concerning the 
initiation of brethren, provided for in the General 
Grand Chapter ritual, brother Macoy subsequently 
said, in Critical and Explanatory Notes: 

The ceremonies originally "set forth" in the East- 
ern Star Order were intended for ladies only. The at- 
tempted innovation of requiring gentlemen to pass 
through these ceremonies will have the effect of illus- 
trating that there is "but a step from the sublime to 
the ridiculous." We hope no chapter will enforce the 
suggestion of the committer, and no gentleman will 
allow himself to be the subject of mirth by being so 
used. The ceremony might be appropriate for the 
committee, but not proper for a gentleman. 

In declaring the chapter open, the Matron said : 

In the name of the departed heroines whose virtues 
we emulate; in the name of our great sisterhood, knit 
together in bonds of charity and sincere friendship; 
and in the name of our heavenly Master, who has 
declared that He "Loveth a cheerful giver," I declare 

chapter No. , of the Eastern Star, open 

and in due order for the dispatch of business. 

The covenant of adoption, which was printed in 
full, contained but four ties: 1. Secrecy; 2. Obedi- 
ence to law; 3. Advice, sympathy and aid; 4. Avoid- 



*5* IS>' 




Robert Macoy. 



RITUALS. 101 

ing acts of injustice and unldndness. The point lec- 
tures bore the same characteristics as those of the 
Manuals, the candidate being seated in the point 
chairs during their delivery. Some infelicitous expres- 
sions marred this work, e. g. : the Conductress stated 
that "first impressions made upon a. candidate are 
permanent * * and it depends greatly upon the 
manner of conducting her * * to make those im- 
pressions lasting," and this is found in all the Macoy 
rituals and the New York ritual. 

Forms for installation, for a chapter of sorrow and 
funeral services were also included, most of which 
were performed by the Patron. These were undoubt- 
edly original with brother Macoy. 

The chapter of sorrow was a most harrowing serv- 
ice; the room, altar, and official stations were to be 
draped in black ; on the altar was an urn covered with 
a black pall fringed with silver, or white silk, on which 
were painted or embroidered the names of the de- 
parted; at each point of the star was a lighted white 
wax candle; a floral star was also introduced, from 
which the various colored flowers were; withdrawn by 
the proper officers, and deposited in the urn of re- 
membrance. Much of the language of the Macoy 
funeral service' was incorporated into it, and like that, 
it was entirely under the direction of the Patron, the 
Matron's part consisting of six lines; while in the 
funeral service she had no part whatever. 

CROMBIE'S RITUAL. 

This was an arrangement of the work for the use 
of the order in Scotland and was made up from the 
Morris Manual, and Adoptive Rite, and was not well 
adapted to the work in an organized body, as it in- 
cluded much of the address of the Patron that was 
contained in the Manual, which was written solely 
for the communicating of the degree in lecture form. 



102 RITUALS. 

'Nov was it adapted to the communicating of the de- 
gree, as the other portions of the work were arranged 
to be rendered by the star officers. The only original 
matter worthy of note was the lecture of Martha, 
which followed more nearly and completely the scrip- 
ture account. We make the following excerpts: 

The family, composed of Martha and Mary, with 
their brother Lazarus, seemed to have possessed all 
things needful for a happy life. Bound up in the 
love of each other, and blessed with the friendship 
of Him whom to know is everlasting life, the little 
group were distinguished from their neighbors by a 
name that proved how thoroughly their hearts were 
occupied with divine things. They were "thei beloved 
of the Master, the happy household of Bethany." 
*_ * * Amazing faith! heroic spirit of confidence 
in her friend ! though her brother had been four days 
in the embrace of death, and the subject of its cor- 
rupting influences — though the weight of watchful- 
ness and sorrow rested heavily upon her spirit as she 
knelt, her hands wildly raised to heaven — there was 
a spirit of prophecy in her words which g^avei them 
a value altogether their own. 

CALIFORNIA RITUAL. 

In this Adoptive Rite was closely followed, there- 
being introduced a five-sided altar, the sides of glass 
in colors, the propesr emblems being painted on them, 
which were illuminated by a lamp or candle placed 
inside the altar; around which was a five-sided cushion 
in the five colors; in the East was an illuminated five- 
pointed star. In this was first introduced the square 
and compass as the Patron's official emblem. Pro- 
vision was made for collars of the five colors to be 
worn by eight officers; the star officers were to wear 
sashes and aprons of the appropriate colors, while all 
other sisters were to wear five-sided white aprons, each' 
side measuring twelve inches, with a bib, the point of 
which was to reach the center of the apron; these 



RITUALS. 103 

were trimmed around the edges with the five colors. 
The complete,' chapter was made, for the first time, 
to require fourteen officers, and the Patron was men- 
tioned first. Many other additions and verbal changes 
were made in the initiation ceremony, to make it 
more complete, and the candidate for the first time 
was caused to kneel at the altar and to repeat the! 
vow of adoption. A special form was provided for the 
initiation of gentlemen, which included the vow of 
adoption, and the explanation of the signs, passes, 
grip, and cabalistic motto, but did not include any 
lectures. Some additions were made to the initiation 
ceremony, but the lectures were as in Adoptive Rite, 
the candidate, however, not being seated. An instal- 
lation ceremony, differing somewhat from Adoptive 
Rite, completed the volume. 

ADOPTIVE RITE REVISED. 

In this brother Macoy availed himself largely of 
the matter embraced in the California ritual, e. g. : 
the number of officers for a complete chapter was 
made fourteen, but the Patron was mentioned last. 
Provision was made, for the first time, for the officers 
to march in before the opening, and responses from 
the star officers were incorporated in the opening cer- 
emony, in Adoptive Rile the meaning of the pqint 
emblems being incorporated in the Matron's work. 
Otherwise the book was unchanged. 

MACOY'S RITUAL. 

In this the jewel of the Patron was made the 
square and compasses, as in California, and many of 
the minor additions and verbal changes in that ritual, 
including the ceremony for initiating gentlemen, were 
incorporated. It was provided that the Conductress 
was to ascertain if all sisters present were members 
of the order, and 

The Patron will assure himself that the gentlemen 
present are entitled to seats in the chapter. * * If 



104 RITUALS. 

therei should be any master masons present who have 
not been obligated, that ceremony should be per- 
formed immediately after the chapter shall be declared 
open. 

The goldem. chain was introduced, and for the first 
time in a Macoy ritual, the initiation ceremony was 
concluded by a lecture by the Patron, in which the 
signs, passes, etc., were explained. This was the work 
of B. T. Burnham, Grand Lecturer of New York, 
and was published in pamphlet form by the Grand 
Chapter of New York, in 1875, without being copy- 
righted. Forms were also provided for constituting 
chapters and dedicating halls, and it also contained a 
revised burial service, which was largely performed 
by the Patron; although the Matron was given a 
small part. 

CALIFORNIA REVISED. 

A committee was appointed by the General Grand 
Chapter, in 1876, to prepare a ritual, of which Jere- 
miah E. Whitcher, of California, was a member. A 
committee of the Grand Chapter of Massachusetts, 
of which Thomas M. Lamb, afterward Most Worthy 
Grand Patron, was chairman, presented for the con- 
sideration of the committee, a new set of lectures, and 
the committee of the Grand Chapter of California, 
which prepared this ritual, availed itself of many of 
the suggestions of the Massachusetts committee. The 
special form for the initiation of gentlemen was 
dropped. With these exceptions the ritual was much 
like the first California ritual. 

MICHIGAN RITUAL. 

This was a revision of the Tatem Monitor, in which 
much of the secret work, especially in the opening 
ceremonies, was represented by asterisks, while the 
point lectures were an exact reproduction of those in 
the Tatem Monitor. It was printed by the grand 



RITUALS. 105 

lodge for the use of its subordinates, the original 
work being out of print. 

GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 

This ritual was prepared by a committee appointed 
in 1876, consisting of John M. Mayhew, of New Jer- 
sey; Willis D. Engle, of Indiana; Thomas C. 
Ready, of Missouri; Jeremiah E. Whitcher, of Cali- 
fornia; Elizabeth Butler, of Illinois; Mary A. Corn- 
stock, of Indiana; and Mattie A. Yost, of Missouri; 
which submitted its report in 1878, when it was 
amended, adopted, and placed in the hands of a com- 
mittee consisting of brothers Lamb, Mayhew and 
Engle, for arrangement and printing, and the procla- 
mation of the Most Worthy Grand Patron, authoriz- 
ing its use, was issued November 16, 1878, the sec- 
ond anniversary of the organization of the General 
Grand Chapter, and it was immediately accepted by 
all the grand chapters except New York and Ver- 
mont. By it the Patron was made!) the second officer 
of a chapter, and provision was made for a Chaplain, 
if desired. Jewels were prescribed for the officers, 
and it was provided: 

Collars, and other regalia in addition, may be worn 
by chapters that desire them, the General Grand 
Chapter only prescribing the minimum. All the mem- 
bers of the order shall, during chapter session, wear 
upon the left breast a five-pointed star, three inches 
across, and having the five colors of the order. 

*This, however, never attained general acceptance 
in practice. 

The alarm as now in use was herein first introduced, 
as were also the grand honors, and the giving of the 
signs and the responses in the opening ceremony, sim- 
ilar to the Mosaic Book. A new opening prayer was 
inserted, and a closing prayer, for which no provis- 
ion had been made in the preceding chapter rituals, 



106 RITUALS. 

was adapted from the Mosaic Book. The use of 
scripture recitations during the weaving of the laby- 
rinth was authorized, and the Patron's address was 
greatly changed, and entirely new lectures were 
furnished for Ruth, Esther, and Electa, while Mar- 
tha's was materially lengthened, and greatly beauti- 
fied. The Patron's lecture, including the explanation 
of the floral emblems, was entirely recast, and forms 
for installation of officers and grand officers, the latter 
entirely new, and a new funeral ceremony completed 
the volume. 

CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES. 

This was a publication made by brother Macoy, 
and embraced portions of the General Grand Chapter 
ritual, with the brother's comments and criticisms 
thereon. In it was reiterated the claims that brother 
Morris was the originator of the order, and the trans- 
fer of his assumed authority to brother Macoy; and it 
was stated that "when the chapters had sufficiently 
increased in each State, grand chapters were formed, 
first in New York, then in other States;'' that he had 
"openly and candidly" opposed the organization of 
the General Grand Chapter "because I dreaded that 
the spirit of innovation would destroy all that to which 
so much labor had been devoted to build up;" that 
the General Grand Chapter ritual was "tautological 
and farcical, monotonous and puerile. It may pos- 
sibly be used by a few, and by reason of its innova- 
tions, will produce confusion and discord in the order." 

LOWE'S EXPOSE. 

This work, which was written by a man who claims 
that 

As I received these "Adoptive Degrees" from 
their inventor and "Grand Patron," Rob Morris him- 
self, the public may rest assured I here give them 
correctly. Certain it is that I give them not only as 



RITUALS. 107 

I received them, but as, under a commission from the 
"Grand Patron," Morris, I conferred them upon sev- 
eral hundred men and women in different parts of 
the State of Michigan. For the sketch of the origin 
and character of the order and the analysis of the 
different degrees the public are indebted to the pub- 
lisher instead of the author. 

Any one perusing the aforesaid sketch and analysis 
will not be surprised that even a man who claimed 
to be thus violating his most solemn pledge of secrecy, 
desired to escape the responsibility for such diatribe. 
With a sanctimoniousness characteristic of all such 
self -accusing perjurers, he says: 

That this little volume may be blessed of God in 
opening the eyes of many to the real character, not 
only of this order, but of freemasonry and kindred 
orders is the prayer of the author. 

When it is remembered that at the time of the pub- 
lication of this book the work of the order, correctly 
given, with the exception of the secret work, could be 
had at any bookseller's, by purchasing Macoy's Man- 
ual, it is evident that the object of its publication 
was either to make money; to mislead those who had 
no knowledge of the real character and work of the 
order; or simply to carry the vile misrepresentations 
of the order, and of masonry. We will give some ex- 
tracts from the sketch and analysis; those of a milder 
nature only, and will also reproduce some of the il- 
lustrations of the manner of giving the signs, which 
will certainly be amusing if not profitable to members 
of the order. They are inserted here so that should 
a person ask admission to a chapter, and give the signs 
after this manner, the source from which they at- 
tained their knowledge might be known. 

A careful investigation of the subject must con- 
vince every candid person that secret societies play a 
very important part in the devil's economy. 



108 



RITUALS. 




First Position Second Position. 

WIDOW'S SIGN. 



It certainly is not that I have! any personal quarrel 
with any of the managers of the order or that I seek 

pecuniary profit or noto- 
riety thereby, but that 
the christian women of 
America may see for 
themselves what a sham 
and cheat is provided to 
close the mouths of the 
female relatives of free- 
masons from protesting 
against an order which is 
a standing insult to every 
true woman, in that it 
not only classes all wo- 
men with minors, mad- 
men and fools, but would 
repeal the law of God which pronounces husband and 
wife one, by swearing the husband to perpetually con- 
ceal from his wife matters concerning his relations 
with five hundred thousand other men, to each of 
whom he may confide what he dare not mention to 
his wife. 

The first degree is evidently a shrewd, yet desperate 
attempt to justify masonic oaths, even when such 

oaths lead to murder. The 
second aims to prove that 
freemasonry inculcates pi- 
ety, though masonic au- 
thors sneer at the decalogue 
as narrow and declare that 
the masonic moral law is the 
law of nature only. The 
object of the third degree 
is somewhat similar to that 
of the first degree, and 
though professedly a tribute 
to true friendship is plainly 
designed to teach that 
freemasons are justified in aiding and defending each 
other in both right and wrong conduct. "What the 
object of the fourth degree is, unless it be by whole- 
sale lying to deceive the uninformed as to the charac- 




Wipb's Sign. 

First Position. Second Position. 



RITUALS. 



109 




ter of the order, seems difficult to imagine. The fifth 
degree is a lame attempt to convey the impression 
that freemasonry teaches "patience and submission 
under wrongs" and that free- 
masons are a noble band of 
martyrs for the truth; and 
further, that benevolence is a 
prime characteristic of the or- 
der. 

We call attention to the fact 
that all master masons in good 
standing in the masonic order, 
however immoral their charac- 
ter, may demand admission to the won 

The lightning changes of costumes 
between the first and second positions 
in the widow's and wife's signs must 
have been of a sleight of hand nature 
and we are certain that the correctness, 
with which the signs are delineated 
is only exceeded by the artistic exe- 
cution of the engravings. The decided 
change in Esther's countenance will 
also fix attention. 

ilother'e Sign. 
GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER REVISED. 

This was substantially a reprint of the original Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter ritual, although it contained many 
minor changes. It was provided that any chapter 
could have a Marshal and an Organist if it so desired. 
The greatest change was in the lecture of Electa, 
which was entirely recast, and somewhat shortened. 
Another change was in the rearranging and shorten- 
ing of the Patron's lecture. 

MACOY'S STANDARD. 

In this, following the arrangement of the General 
Grand Chapter ritual, the Patron was made the 




110 RITUALS. 

second officer of the chapter, and other regulations were 
adopted from the same source. The opening, closing 
and initiation ceremonies were an exact reprint of the 
Macoy ritual. One of the purposes of this publica- 
tion was to engraft upon the order the "higher de- 
grees" of the Amaranth and Queen of the South, but 
so far as the latter is concerned it was a complete 
failure. I clo not know that it has been useid by any 
one. These remarks are not applicable to our colored 
friends, who delight in its royal titles. As the ritual 
was sold in the open market, they largely availed 
themselves of it. The book closed with an historical 
sketch from the pen of W. J. 'Duncan, now a Past 
Grand Patron of New York, which contains many 
facte of a valuable nature, but he could not but let his 
friendship for brother Macoy bias him so that some 
things are only partially stated, as e. g.: "The order 
was introduced into * * * Michigan, at Rockland, 
March, 1870 (during 1867, '68, and '69 there was a 
system called 'lodges of adoptive masonry');" the 
reader being left to infer that that system had died 
out, and that there w r as no grand chapter in that 
State, as, in every other instance, he gave the date 
of the organization of the grand chapter. Bob Mor- 
ris's writings in 1877 are copiously quoted as in op- 
position to the General Grand Chapter, and the im- 
pression conveyed that he was unalterably opposed to 
it, the fact that he gave it his endorsement during 
the last eight years of his life, being entirely ignored. 

NEW YORK RITUAL. 

This is a revision of the Macoy ritual, containing 
opening, closing, and initiation ceremonies for both 
women and master masons. To it are also appended the 
floral work as composed by brother Burton, and a 
form for organizing chapters. The following changes 
are noted: The Associate Matron is provided with 



RITUALS. Ill 

a gavel, but no use is specified for it; the point lec- 
tures are slightly changed., and in some places abbre- 
viated; the duties and badge of the Patron are in- 
troduced into the opening ceremony, and are given 
by that officer; the prayer in the opening is changed, 
and a form for prayer in closing is supplied where, in 
the Macoy ritual, provision was made for an extem- 
poraneous prayer; the question: "Do you believe in 
the existence of a Supreme Being?" is introduced into 
the work; and certain portions of the secret work 
which were in the Macoy ritual, are omitted. 

NEW YORK GERMAN. 

This was a translation of the New York ritual into 
German for the. use of Concordia Chapter, New 
York city. 

ADOPTIVE RITE RITUAL. 

In 1896 the Grand Chapter of Xew York pur- 
chased from the heirs of Robert Macoy his copyright 
of the Macoy Standard, but as brother Macoy was 
never the owner of the copyright of any previous rit- 
ual, Adoptive Rite having been copyrighted by the 
Masonic Publishing and Manufacturing Company, 
the ownership of that copyright did not pass to the 
grand chapter, but is now claimed by J". G. Barker, 
as the successor to that company, and this ritual, 
which includes not only the Eastern Star, but also the 
Queen of the South, Matron's Administrative degree, 
forms for installation of officers and grand officers, 
constituting and inaugurating chapters, dedicating 
halls, chapter of sorrow, and funeral service, is upon 
the market, for sale to whomsoever will buy. This rit- 
ual is a combination of Adoptive Rite revised and Ma- 
coy's Ritual, such alterations as w r ere introduced into 
the work by brother Macoy before he sold his interest 
in the Masonic Publishing and Manufacturing Com- 
pany in 1875 being included in it, as is also the form 
of the initiation of master masons. 



CHAPTEK IV. 



OBJECTS, LANDMAEKS, ETC. 

OBJECTS OF THE ORDER. 

THESAUEOS set forth the objects of the order as 
follows : 

The objects of this organization are to relieve 
the distressed, cultivate the social virtues; guard 
the good fame and character of the membership ; and 
promote the interests of the christian religion. 

In the Mosaic Book : 

1, To associate in one common band, the worthy 
wives, widows, daughters, and sisters of freemasons^ 
so as to make their adoptive privileges available for 
all purposes contemplated in masonry; 2, to secure to 
them the advantages of their adoptive claims in a 
moral, social, and charitable point of view; and 3, to 
gain from them the performance of corresponding du- 
ties. The benefits of this rite are mainly for the fe- 
male sex. For them this temple has been reared, 
these walls set up. They are its glory and crown. 
For a wider diffusion of the masonic scheme of teach- 
ing morality and religion by significant emblems; 
for inclining the influence of females toward the York 
rite; for increasing social enjoyment by the masonic 
tie, for ameliorating the condition of widows and or- 
phans; and for affording increased facilities in reliev- 
ing distressed travelers, the American Adoptive Eite 
has been framed. To secure successful results it is 
necessary that its votaries should apply its rules in a 
rigid sense; maintain its landmarks valiantly; affiliate 
into its bonds only those calculated, by temperament 
and principle, to understand and appreciate it, and 
work out patiently and untiringly its grand designs. 

(112) 



OBJECTS, LANDMARKS. ETC. 113 

Adoptive Eite added: 

The wives, mothers, widows, sisters and daughters 
of masons cannot, from the immutable laws of the 
order, be permitted to share in the grand mysteries of 
freemasonry; but there is no reason why there should 
not be a society for them, which may not merely en- 
able them to make themselves known to masons, and 
so to obtain assistance and protection, but by means 
of which, acting in concert through the tie of associa- 
tion and united obligation, they may co-operate in 
the great labors of masonry, by assisting in, and, in 
some respects directing, the charities, and toiling in 
the cause of human progress. 

In his address to the General Grand Chapter in 
1880, Thomas M. Lamb, Most Worthy Grand Pa- 
tron, said: 

"What Masonry does for the masonic brother, the 
Eastern Star shall do for the mason's wife, daughter, 
widow, mother and sister. They also shall become 
companions in the pilgrimage of life, and walk with 
the brother by the light of the blending rays of their 
own and the brother's order. Together they shall 
enter the temples of the Eastern Star, and consecrat- 
ing themselves to a pure and useful life, become 
bound in the bonds of charity and loving kindness. 
The brother, kneeling at such an altar, will feel 
stronger the obligation resting upon him to walk 
uprightly, worthy of such companionship. The light 
that emanates from our central star, shall lead them 
to virtues that blossom into true manhood and woman- 
hood. Electa shall teach them loyalty to the truth, 
and though suffering the wrongs of persecution in its 
behalf, to despair not of its final triumph — the eter- 
nal years of God are hers. They shall learn fidelity 
to convictions of right from Adah, who in the morn- 
ing of life surrendered to the grave the brightest of 
earthly hopes, that she might prove faithful to her 
convictions of right, and preserve her father's honor. 
The constancy of the humble gleaner Ruth shall teach 
them that there is loveliness among the lowly, and 



114 OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. * 

that in every station of life we should be faithful 
to the demands of honor and justice. They shall 
learn of that burning love for kindred and friends, 
that led Esther to risk the loss of crown and life, that 
she might give life and joy to a despised and captive 
race. When sore bereavement shall cast them into 
the valley of sorrow, they shall see Martha beside the 
grave of her brother, inspired with trustful faith and 
hope of immortal life. The broken column shall be 
entwined with evergreen, an emblem that leads the 
sorrowing heart through the shadow of the tomb to 
the open portals of eternal day, where faith is lost in 
sight, and hope crowned with celestial fruition. 

A later writer has said: 

Its purposes are to enlarge the acquaintance, in- 
crease the friendships, and cultivate sociability 
among the brotherhood and their families. The 
brotherhood have many and frequent oppor- 
tunities of sociability at the meetings of the 
lodge, chapter, council and commandery, from which 
their families are excluded. The Eastern Star sup- 
plies this long felt want to those who should of right 
share with the brotherhood its labors and its enjoy- 
ments. It is a worthy helpmeet, and has proved a 
most helpful auxiliary to the venerable order of 
freemasonry. Its purposes are high and ennobling, 
and its lessons teach the purest morality and a con- 
sistent Christianity. While it seeks to encourage and 
cultivate the social element among its members, it 
aims to practice that charity which sufTereth long and 
is kind. From the time of its conception, it has not 
only been a social institution, but one of charity and 
benevolence as well. All along, its past has been 
marked by deeds of charity, and kindness, and mutual 
goodwill to man, giving aid to the unfortunate, a dvice 
to the troubled, and sympathy to the sorrowing.fWith 
these noble deeds, making the pathway of many a 
life brighter and purer, the cause of the Eastern Star 
has ever been onward and upward, rising higher and 
still higher toward the zenith of perfection, whence its 
beneficent rays will permeate every masonic home in 
the land. 



OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. 115 

LANDMARKS. 

In Mosaic Book they were nine in number: 

I. The Star of Christ, or Eastern Star, is the basis 
of the five degrees of the American Adoptive Kite. 

II. This rite contains nothing in its ceremonies 
and lectures of any other rite. 

III. Its lessons are eminently scriptural and 
christian. 

IV. Its obligations are based on the honor of the 
female sex; and framed upon the principle that what- 
ever benefits are due by the masonic fraternity to the 
wives, widows, daughters, and sisters of masons, cor- 
responding benefits are due from them to the masonic 
fraternity. 

V. The control of the rite lies in a central head, 
styled the Supreme Constellation. 

YI. The Supreme Constellation delegates its au- 
thority to form subordinate constellations respectively, 
to five affiliated master masons of the York Rite, as- 
sociated together for that purpose, and responsible to 
the Supreme Constellation alone. 

VII. An intimate periodical relationship is main- 
tained between each subordinate constellation and the 
central head. 

VIII. The ceremonial and lectures of this rite are 
communicated by the joint instrumentality of both 
sexes. 

IX. The entire ritual of this rite, both esoteric 
and exoteric, is reduced to writing and intrusted, un- 
der due precautions, to the heads of constellations. 

Adoptive Rite increased the number to fifteen, em- 
bracing, practically I, III, IV, V, and YI of the 
above, substituting Supreme Grand Chapter for Su- 
preme Constellation, and adding 

4. A belief in the existence of a Supreme Being, 
who will, sooner or later, punish the wilful violation 
of a solemn pledge'. 

5. The modes of recognition, which are the pecu- 
liar secrets of the rite, cannot, without destroying the 
foundation of the system, be changed. 



116 OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. 

6. That a covenant of secrecy voluntarily as- 
sumed is perpetual ; from the force of such obligation 
there is no possibility of release. 

8. That the ballot for candidates for membership 
must be unanimous, and is to be kept inviolably 
secret. 

9. The right of every chapter to be the judge of 
who shall be admitted to its membership, and to select 
its own officers; but in no case can the ceremonies of 
the order be conferred unless a master mason in good 
standing in the masonic fraternity presides. 

10. Every sister is amenable to the laws and reg- 
ulations of the order, and may be tried for offenses,, 
though she may permanently or temporarily reside 
within the jurisdiction of another chapter. 

11. The right of every sister to appeal from the 
decision of her associates in chapter convened, to the 
Supreme Grand Chapter, or to the M. E. Grand 
Patron. 

12. The prerogative of the M. E. Grand Patron 
to preside over every assembly of the rite wherever 
he may visit, and to grant charters for the formation 
of new chapters. 

13. That every chapter has the right to dispense 
the light of the adoptive rite and to administer its 
own private affairs. 

14. Every chapter should elect and install its of- 
ficers annually. 

15. The right of every sister to visit and sit in 
every regular chapter, except when such visitor is 
likely to disturb the harmony or interrupt the prog- 
ress of the chapter she proposes to visit. 

They were the same in Macoy's ritual except that 
the word "Supreme," and the letters "M. E." were 
omitted from 7, 11, and 12, and the words "and to 
grant dispensations for the formation of new chap- 
ters within the territorial jurisdiction/' were added to 
12. Although there were two or three incidental al- 
lusions to a Supreme Grand Chapter and a Supreme 
Grand Patron, in this ritual, this change in the land- 
marks was a practical abandonment of the pretense 



OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. 117 

of the existence of such a body, and, as this ritual 
was first issued in 1876, just at the time when the 
movement for the organization of the General Grand 
Chapter was taking definite shape, and brother Macoy 
was preparing to attack it on the ground of the use- 
lessness of such bodies, the reason of the change is ap- 
parent. Failing in his purposes, when he issued Ma- 
coy's Standard, in 1887, he inserted the words "Su- 
preme Council," and "Supreme Patron, or executive 
officer," in 7, and changed 11 and 12 to correspond. 
The General Grand Chapter reduced the number to 
twelve, embracing practically all of Maooy's except 
those referring to the control of the rite, and 12, 13, 
and 14, and changing the word "sister," to "member." 
This latter change was also embodied in the New 
York ritual, and "Matron" was substituted for "Pa- 
tron" in number twelve. 

PUBLIC DISPLAYS. 

The Thesauros provided that "at least one annual, 
public procession of this body shall occur, that the 
light of the order may prove a city upon a hill, not 
to be hid." The universal practice in the order in 
later days has been to forbid public displays, outside 
of funerals, chapters of sorrow, and public installa- 
tions, thus being in harmony with the spirit and prac- 
tice of masonry. In most jurisdictions any display 
beyond those mentioned, is prohibited. 

AUTHORITY TO CONFER DEGREES. 

Thesauros provided that the degrees could only be 
conferred by the officers of the Supreme Council, or 
their authorized deputies. The Deputy Luminaries 
were authorized to appoint "as many Assistant Dep- 
uty Luminaries as the good of the order may require," 
each of whom was empowered "to receive petitions, 
decide upon merits, and confer the five degrees in the 



118 OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. 

original mode wherever within the State of 

his journeyings may bring him/ 7 and they were to 
serve until the next convocation of the Supreme 
Council, which was to meet quintennially. "The Su- 
preme Council at Philadelphia, 1845, directs each 
Deputy Luminary to offer an Assistant Deputyship ta 
each Master and Past Master of a lodge throughout 
his division." 

Under the Morris regime every master mason who- 
had the right to receive the degree, had an equal right 
to communicate it, provided there were not less than 
five ladies present, together with as many gentlemen 
as might be convenient. Master masons could not 
communicate the degree to one another, save in the- 
presence of five ladies. 

Under the present system the degrees can only be 
conferred in regularly organized chapters, save that, 
in most jurisdictions, the Grand Patron, or his dep- 
uty, duly authorized so to do, has power to communi- 
cate them at sight upon petitioners for the organiza- 
tion of a chapter in a town or city where no chapter 
exists, but, in one or two jurisdictions, the Grand 
Matron is clothed with this power. 

MEMBERSHIP. 

At the present time all affiliated master masons, 
their wives, widows, mothers, sisters, and daughters, 
over eighteen years of age, are eligible to member- 
ship, and in many jurisdictions, including that of the 
General Grand Chapter, the term daughters is inter- 
preted to include legally adopted daughters; but dur- 
ing the development of the order, other regulations 
have obtained. 

In Thesauros, dimitted master masons, and the 
wives, widows, sisters, daughters, and the sisters of 
the wives of such, were admitted of "fifteen years of 



OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. HO 

age and upwards, of matured intellect and good un- 
derstanding. " 

In constellations, applicants for membership were 
required to be affiliated master masons, or the relatives 
of such, and were to be recommended by five members, 
and "a unanimous vote (save two) shall be required 
to elect. They must also be of sound mind, and ca- 
pable of acquiring a knowledge of the rite." 

Under the Morris regime (1860-1868), all master 
masons, whether affiliated or not, and the wives, wid- 
ows, sisters, and daughters of such were admitted, 
"provided the unmarried ladies were eighteen years 
of age or upward," but step-sisters, step-daughters, 
and divorced widows, were specifically excluded. It 
was further provided that 

Daughters and sisters who have married persons 
not masons can receive the degree at the discretion 
of the lecturer; but, in general it is advised that they 
should not. 

The same rule was laid down in the Maeoy Man- 
ual, without the exceptions. Under the Tatem Monitor 
only affiliated master masons, and their wives, widows, 
daughters, and sisters were eligible. The first recog- 
nition of the mothers of master masons was in Adop- 
tive Rite, and since that, the present rule has gen- 
erally prevailed. 

In the states of 'New York and Eehv Jersey it has 
always been the practice to admit all master masons to 
the meetings of chapters, as visitors, upon their as- 
suming an obligation of secrecy, but this is not be- 
lieved to have been done in any other jurisdiction. 

Thesauros declaied: 

The Order of the Eastern Star is impregnable to 
the profane, the vicious, and the sceptics of christian 
faith. The Order of the Eastern Star is a christian 
association of females in aid of ancient freemasonry. 



120 OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. 

The Mosaic Book: 

It will be observed that this order, like the en- 
campment order of masonry, is a christian system; 
and that none can consistently become its members, 
whether male or female, save those who at least be- 
lieve in Jesns Christ. 

Morris's Manual: 

The Eastern Star degree is not adapted to the Jew- 
ish brethren or their female relatives, though they 
may receive it if they choose. If any offer to attend 
they ought to be informed that it is purely christian. 

According to Adoptive Rite and Macoy's rituals, 
including the Standard, and Adoptive Rite Ritual, 
"A belief in the existence of a supreme being, who 
will, sooner or later, punish the willful violation of a 
solemn pledge," was one of the landmarks. By the 
General Grand Chapter and New York rituals the 
candidate was required to declare a belief in the exist- 
ence of a Supreme Being. All other rituals are silent 
as to religious belief. 

The Mosaic Book provided : 

"Whatever physical deformities or deficiencies, that 
would render a person incapable of giving and re- 
sponding to any of the means of recognition, are a 
bar to initiation. 

ISTo other ritual alludes to physical qualifications, 
that matter being usually dealt with by decisions of 
the several grand chapters, which are generally in ac- 
cord with the above, although the blind, and the deaf 
and dumb have been initiated in some jurisdictions. 
For particulars of these decisions reference should be 
made to the index. 

In Thesauros sisters were called members, and 
brothers protectors; in the Mosaic Book, sisters were 
stellse, and brothers protectors. Under the family 
regime they were called simply sisters and brothers, 



OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. 121 

and this custom has prevailed ever since, although, by 
decisions in some jurisdictions, the use of the terms 
have been confined to the precincts of the chapter 
room. 

FORFEITURE OF MEMBERSHIP. 

Under Thesauros membership was forfeited 

By great dereliction of duty, violation of the obli- 
gation, or transgression of the laws of the land, and 
the excinded member should be held as such until 
full reformation is evident. 

By the Mosaic Book a protector forfeited his mem- 
bership : 

1, by absence from the sessions of the constellation 
for twelve consecutive months (except on account of 
protracted journeying, or ill-health,); 2, by demit- 
ting from the masonic lodge in which he is affiliated ; 
3, by suspension or expulsion from said lodge; 4, by 
suspension or expulsion from the constellation. 

The membership of a stella is forfeited 1, by ab- 
sence from the sessions of the constellation for twelve 
consecutive months (except on account of protracted 
journeying, or ill-health,); 2, by suspension or expul- 
sion from the constellation; 3, by the dimital, suspen- 
sion or expulsion of the individual through whom she 
was adopted, upon her . original petition, provided 
that, if she can prove adoption through another mas- 
ter mason, affiliated, and in good standing, the Pil- 
lars of a constellation are at liberty to substitute his 
name on the membership board for the one originally 
entered there. 

In Book of Instructions provision was made for 
the forfeiture of membership only after "a fair trial, 
conducted on a patient and equitable basis," except 
that 

Any master mason, a member of the family, sus- 
pended or expelled by his lodge, shall receive the 
same penalty from the family, without trial; nor can 
he be reinstated in the family until he has been rein- 
stated by his lodge, or the grand lodge. 



122 OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. 

Under Adoptive Rite and Adoptive Rite Ritual a 
brother's membership was forfeited "by suspension, 
expulsion, or dismission from the masonic lodge of 
which he was a member; or from the chapter;" while 
the membership of a sister was forfeited : 

1, by absence from the sessions of the chapter for 
two years; 2, by suspension, expulsion, or dismission 
from the chapter; 3, by the suspension, expulsion, or 
dismission of the brother through whom she was 
adopted upon her original petition; provided that, if 
she can prove adoption through another master ma- 
son, affiliated, and in good standing, the members of 
the chapter are at liberty to substitute his name on 
the original petition. 

In Macoy's ritual and Macoy's Standard the same 
rule obtained, except that the third specification in 
regard to a sister was omitted, and this is the rule that 
now universally exists, although the exempting of a 
sister from dependence upon the good standing of the 
brother through whom she obtained membership was 
strenuously opposed by brother Morris. In 1877 he 
said : 

In my judgment nothing so effectually destroys the 
very aim and purpose of the order as the legislation 
adopted in some of the grand chapters, which changes 
the relationship of woman to the order. It has been 
decided in California, New York, and possibly else- 
where, that if a master mason is ever expelled from 
masonry this will not affect the standing of his wife, 
daughter, or sister in the order. * * What object 
can a chapter have in retaining ladies in membership 
whose husbands are expelled? Will a modest lady 
come to the chapter at all under such circumstances ? 
Are they not exposed at every meeting to be wounded 
by the lectures, and remarks made upon the subject 
of immorality and unworthiness? Can a master ma- 
son conscientiously sit in a chapter with ladies whose 
husbands and fathers he has helped to expel for gross 
crimes? What principle in the Eastern Star is un- 



OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. 123 

changeable if this one is not, which enters into the 
very origin and philosophy of the order? * * * 
I do not wonder so many intelligent master masons 
look with suspicion upon the operations of grand chap- 
ters of the Eastern Star, when, by a single vote, they 
can thus remove the foundation stone of the whole 
order. 

Time and experience seem to have vindicated the 
views that brother Morris deemed so dangerous to 
the very existence of the order. 

Under the present system no penalty attaches to ab- 
sence from chapter meetings in any jurisdiction. 

The General Grand Chapter ritual provided: 

Membership can only be forfeited by dismission, 
suspension, or expulsion from a chapter, excepting 
that the suspension or expulsion of a brother from a 
masonic lodge for any other cause than nonpayment 
of dues, deprives him of all the rights of membership 
in the order until reinstated by the masonic body. 

In most jurisdictions the laws do not make the ex- 
ception in regard to nonpayment of dues, while the 
Grand Chapter of California has decided that the 
suspension of a brother from his lodge for any cause 
does not affect his standing in the chapter. 

ADDENDAS TO THE WORK. 

The Most Worthy Grand Patron in 1880 decided 
that 

The floral work, and other rhetorical exercises, are 
useful when the chapter seeks diversion, or means of 
culture, but they should in no case be introduced as 
a part of the initiatory ceremony. 

This was supplemented, in 1889, by the adoption 
of the following: 

Resolved, that it is the sense of this General Grand 
Chapter that the rendition of what is known as the 
floral work, or floral addenda is not prohibited, if the 
candidate is fully instructed that it does not consti- 
tute any part of the initiatory ceremony. 



124 OBJECTS, LANDMARKS, ETC. 

In 1879 the Grand Chapter of Xew York de- 
clared that 

So long as our ritual and landmarks of our order 
are not interfered with, we shall hail with joy any 
work that will add to the solemnity and interest of 
our ceremonies. 

CHAPTER OF SORROW. 

In his address to the General Grand Chapter in 
1889, the Most Worthy Grand Patron said: 

I call your attention to a recently published me- 
morial service, entitled Chapter of Sorrow of the 
Grder of the Eastern Star, composed and arranged by 
sister Addie C. S. Engle. As indicated by its name, 
it is intended as a service, "supplemental to the pre- 
scribed funeral ceremonies, in commemoration of 
those who, year by year, are taken by the stern reaper, 
■death," and is designed for use in the chapter room. 
It is a very beautiful form of service, and is worthy 
of being used in every chapter, when it is desired to 
do honor to the memory of our deceased members. I 
most heartily commend it to you, and recommend its 
use in every chapter of the order. 

The committee on revision of ritual reported as fol- 
lows, and it was adopted : 

We have reviewed the memorial service, chapter 
of sorrow of the Order of the Eastern Star, as ar- 
ranged by Mrs. Addie C. S. Engle*. We do most 
heartily indorse it as being all we could desire, both 
in beauty and expression, and take pleasure in recom- 
mending its use to the order. 

Eor particulars as to these, and other similar cere- 
monies, see chapter Y. 



CHAPTEE V. 



DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

I"N ALL rituals the first four degrees are uniformly 
called Daughter's; Widow's; "Wife's; and Sister's. 
The fifth is called in Thesauros, the Mason's Wife's 
Sister's; and in subsequent rituals, until Adoptive 
Rite, in which they are not named, the Christian. In 
Macoy's Ritual, and subsequent ones, it is called the 
Mother's. In Thesauros they are further called Ini- 
tiatory; Passing; Raising; Exalting; and Perfecting. 

NAMES OF HEROINES. 

The names of the five heroines are the same in all 
rituals except Thesauros, in which Jephthah's daugh- 
ter is the only designation for the first. 

COLORS. 

The colors are the same in all rituals except The- 
sauros, in which the second is given as orange. In 
the esoteric work presumably accompanying Thesau- 
ros, which is not known now to exist, those things 
which the various colors represented, and the different 
emblems, were explained. 

In Mosaic Book the colors were thus explained: 

Blue, which is the hue of distant mountains under 
Judah's fair sky, reminds me of the two months' stay 
made by Adah in the mountains, while fortifying her 
mind against the terrors of a violent death. 

Yellow, which is the hue of the barley fields on 
the plains of Judah, reminds me that, in that place of 
harvest, all her prayers were answered, her faith re- 
warded, and her trust in God vindicated. 

White, which is the hue of the silken robes of Es- 
ther, reminds me that, in the spotless purity of Christ 
alone I can expect to find favor at the throne of God. 

(125) 



126 DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

Green, which is the- hue of Spring, and covers every 
grave as with a mantle, reminds me that as Lazarus 
came forth at the breath of the Lord Jesus Christ, so 
shall I, in the spring time of the resurrection, be sum- 
moned from my grave by the same commanding voice. 

Red, which is the hue of blood and wine, reminds 
me to dispense with my temporal means to the poor, 
even as the Redeemer gave his heart's best blood to 
save me from eternal death. 

In Morris's Manual: 

Blue alludes to the blue appearance of the moun- 
tains in whose caves she abode for two months while 
preparing for death. 

Yellow alludes to the color of the ripened barley 
in the harvest fields of Boaz. 

White alludes to her silken apparel as a queen. 

Green alludes to the resurrection of Lazarus. 

Reel alludes to her liberal and boundless hospitality. 

In Rosary: 

Blue alludes to the mountains of Gilead, among 
which was her romantic home in Mizpeh. Seen under 
the clear sky of Palestine, the ranges and peaks of the 
mountains are intensely blue, and this suggests the 
application to Jephthah's daughter. 

Yellow alludes to the golden hue of the barley 
fields in which Ruth was gleaning when she met with 
favor at the hands of Boaz. 

White alludes to the royal robe of whitest silk 
worn by Esther when she enterd the audience cham- 
ber to make known to the king her petition. 

Green alludes to the resurrection of her brother 
Lazarus from the sepulcher where he had lain four 
days dead. 

Red is an emblem of fervency in the exercise of the 
moral virtues, and alludes to the admirable generosity 
of Electa displayed particularly toward the poor and 
persecuted of her faith. 

In Macoy's Manual: 

Blue alludes to the cerulean hue of the mountains 
in whose solitude Jephthah's daughter passed two 
months while preparing herself for death. 



DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 127 

Yellow alludes to the ripened grain that composed 
the barley sheaves of Boaz among which Ruth was 
gleaning. 

White alludes to the silken robes of Esther, em- 
blematic of the spotless purity of her character. 

Green alludes to the resurrection of Lazarus, and 
by direct inference, that final and grander resurrec- 
tion at the last day. Never does freemason oast the 
evergreen sprig into the open grave of his brother but 
the coming event is thus beautifully foreshadowed. 

Ked symbolizes fervency, and alludes to the noble 
generosity of Electa displayed toward the poor and 
persecuted of her faith. 

Adoptive Kite and Macoy's Ritual : 

Blue, which we symbolize (sic) by the azure and 
hazy atmosphere that enveloped the mountains of 
Judea, in whose caves and solitude Jephthah's daugh- 
ter dwelt, with her companions, two months while 
preparing for death. It also symbolized fidelity, and 
should teach us to be faithful to all our obligations. 

Yellow, which symbolizes the ripened grain in the 
field of Boaz, in which Ruth was an humble gleaner. 

White alludes to the white silken robes in which 
Esther was dressed when she appeared before the 
king in the court of Persia, It is emblematic of the 
spotless purity of her character, and teaches us to be 
ever mindful of our rectitude of conduct in the affairs 
of life so as to be above the tongue of reproach. 

Green, emblematical of the immutable nature of 
truth and its victory. The evergreen is the symbol of 
our faith in the immortality of the soul, and the real- 
ization of an everlasting happiness beyond the grave. 

Red symbolizes fervency, and alludes to the noble 
generosity of Electa displayed toward the poor and 
persecuted of her faith. 

In the opening ceremonies other explanations were 
given, some of which seem somewhat strained and 
inconsistent : 

The blue ray represents the clearness of the sky, 



128 DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

when all clouds have vanished, and symbolizes chas- 
tity, loyalty, fidelity, and a spotless reputation. 

The yellow ray symbolizes constancy, purity (!) r 
and the lustre of great brightness. 

The white ray symbolizes light, purity, and joy. 

The green ray, the purity and freshness of which 
are emblems of delight, and the beauty of nature, and 
symbolizes hope and immortality. 

The red ray, symbolically representing ardor and 
zeal, which should actuate all who are engaged in the 
holy cause of benevolence. 

California Ritual: 

Blue is the color to which popular usage has as- 
signed the representation of that which is true and 
faithful. When the blue ray is made to fall for some 
time on the needle it acquires polarity and points true 
to its mysterious attraction in the chambers of the 
north. It teaches us to be true and faithful to all our 
obligations as members of the Eastern Star. 

Yellow or gold, one of the primitive colors, and re- 
flecting the most light, after white, is used to signify 
something pleasing or valuable, as a "heart of gold,'* 
or "the golden chain of friendship." To us it is sym- 
bolical of the ripened grain in the field of Boaz, in 
which Ruth was an humble gleaner. 

"White is the color which has ever been regarded 
as an emblem of purity and innocence. It is the re- 
sult of a union and reaction of all the primary rays 
of light, hence it is metaphorically used to signify a 
collection and reflection of those graces and virtues 
which adorn and dignify the character. To us it is 
emblematical of the spotless purity of the character 
of Esther. 

Green is the most widely diffused of all the tints 
which adorn the material world, and is the symbol of 
memory and eternity. The evergreen which lifts it- 
self over the grave of some loved one, seems to re- 
spond to our sighs with an- instructive language: "He 
is not dead, but sleepeth — thy brother shall rise 
again." To us it is a symbol of the immortality of 
the soul. 



DEGREES, EMELEMS, ETC. 



129 



Red, one of the primary colors, is the one by which 
fervency and love has ever been represented. In the 
prismatic spectrum the red ray is the most calorific, 
and the least refragable of all. It teaches ns that onr 
covenant of love should be ardent, and never turn 
from its purpose, and is symbolical of the fervency of 
Electa in her noble generosity toward the poor and 
persecuted of her race. 

POINT EMBLEMS. 

First point. The sword only, is 
given in the Thesauros, Mosaic 
Book, Ladies' Friend, and Tatem, 
while in Morris's Manual the veil is 
added, but without any explanation. 
In all other rituals the sword and 
veil. 

Second point. The sheaf is all ex- 
cept Rosary, in which "two barley 
parcels" were prescribed. 

Third point. "The crown" only, in 
Thesauros, Ladies' Friend, and Ta- 
tem. In Rosary, "the crown, robe and 
sceptre." In Morris's Manual, the 
crown and scepter are specified, but 
the crown only explained. All others, 
"the crown and scepter." 

Fourth point. In Thesauros, "the open 
sepulchre;" Mosaic Book, "pillar rent;" Ro- 
sary, "shattered shaft and green sprig." All 
others, "broken column." 

Fifth point. Thesauros, "grasped hands;" 
Mosaic Book, "clasped hands;" Morris's 
Manual, Ladies' Friend and Tatem, "joined 
hands;" Rosary, "clasped hands, cup and 
cross;" Macoy's Manual, "cup and clasped 
hands," but cup only explained. All others, 
'cup.' 





130 DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

The explanations were: 
In Mosaic Book: 

The sword which in the hands of her own father, 
became the instrument of her death. 

The sheaf, which in the field of Boaz became the 
means of preserving her life, and exhibiting the be- 
nevolence of a faithful brother. 

The crown which, denoting royalty, is the measure 
of that vast sacrifice so cheerfully made by Esther 
for the preservation of her people. 

The pillar rent, which denotes the sudden death of 
Lazarus. 

The joined hands, which, denoting ardent hospital- 
ity, teaches that, though the christian saint could not 
render to God the benefits received from Him, she 
neglected no opportunity to dispense charity to His 
people. 

Morris's Manual: 

The sword alludes to that by which she was slain. 

The sheaf alludes to the sheaves of barley amongst 
which she was gleaning. 

The crown alludes to her royal state as a queen. 

The broken column alludes to the death of Lazarus. 

The joined hands allude to the rich generosity of 
her character. 

Macoy's Manual: 

The sword reminds us of the instrument of her 
death. 

The sheaf reminds us of the liberality of Boaz, who, 
from his sheaves, commanded that portions be taken 
and cast in Ruth's way, that she might gather an 
abundance. 

The crown reminds us of the queenly state of Es- 
ther, and of the manner in which she hailed the no- 
tice of the king. 

The broken column is an emblem of the death of 
a young man in the vigor of life. 

The cup reminds us of the ardent hospitality of 
Electa, excited by the view of poverty and distress. 



DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 131 

Adoptive Eite : 

By the sword in the handj of the father was the 
-daughter slain. The veil alludes to the firmness with 
which Adah adhered to her determination to die in 
the light, suffering no stain to rest upon her memory 
after death. 

The sheaf is an emblem of plenty, which, from its 
distinct and minute parts, teaches us that by patient 
industry, gleaning here a little and there a little, we 
may accumulate a competency to support us when the 
infirmities of age unfit us for the fatigues of labor. 

The crown and scepter united is an emblem of roy- 
alty and power. It reminds us of the dignity of the 
king and the meek submission of the queenly peti- 
tioner. 

The broken column is an expressive emblem of the 
uncertainty of human existence, and the outward evi- 
dence of the decease of a young man cut down in the 
vigor of life. 

The cup reminds us of the generous hospitality of 
Electa excited by the view of poverty and distress. 

In the opening ceremonies of Adoptive Rite and 
Macoy's Ritual, two of these explanations were 
varied : 

The sword and veil, emblematic of the heroic con- 
duct of Jephthah's daughter. 

The cup is the emblem of the bitter draught, of 
which we are constantly partaking through life; but, 
however distasteful, will, in the end, overflow with 
blessings, rich, abounding and eternal. 

In the opening ceremonies there were different les- 
sons: 

By the sword and veil we are reminded of the filial 
piety of the heroic daughter of Jephthah; by the 
sheaf, that to please God is worthy of our greatest 
sacrifices; by the crown and scepter, that true friend- 
ship refuses no pain or cross for the object of its af- 
fection ; by the broken column, that times of the deep- 
est sorrow and loneliness are often enlightened by the 
brightest graces of God; by the cup, that the cup 



132 DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

which, our heavenly Father gives us to drink, though 
bitter and distasteful, will, in the end, prove to over- 
flow with blessings, rich, abounding and eternal. 

It will be noticed that the Macoy rituals had a 
superabundance of symbolic teachings. 

VEILS. 

In Adoptive Kite, Macoy, California and ]STew 
York rituals the candidate was made to wear a thin 
white veil over her face, which was removed by the 
Conductress after the obligation. The writer was ini- 
tiated thus veiled, but in the New York ritual only 
women candidates were to be thus veiled. In the latter 
ritual, which is the only one that gives any explana- 
tion of this ceremony, the candidate is thus addressed: 

In removing' the veil from your eyes, my sister, 
we bring you into the full light of the beauty of our 
chapter room. In the ancient ceremonies of initiation 
the veil was used as a symbol to teach the candidate 
that as he advanced in knowedge, he was enlightened 
by the spirit of education. That he was led from the 
darkness of ignorance into the marvelous light of 
truth, and we desire that the glory of the bright 
Eastern Star shall be clearly seen by you with no veil 
to dim its lustre. 

The veil used by Adah is variously designated: 
Mosaic Book, "heavy black;" California Ritual, 
"blue;" in all others except the General Grand Chap- 
ter Ritual, "a thick mourning veil." In General 
Grand Chapter Ritual, "a veil." 

The Grand Chapter of Vermont, in 1896, decided 
that a black veil should be used, while the Grand 
Chapter of Maine, in 1897, decided on blue, which is 
the color usually employed, although, with the above 
exceptions, there has been no legislation on the sub- 
ject. It would seem that, considering the harmonies, 
black would be preferable to blue. 



DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 133 

FLORAL EMBLEMS. 

The first mention of them was in Morris's Manual, 
where they were specified, as also in Rosary: "1. 
Violet; 2. Sunflower (heliotropes)," — helianthus was 
probably meant — "3. White lily; 4. Sprig of Pine; 
5. Eed rose." "With this agrees Macoy's Manual, 
save 4 is "a pine leaf." 

In the chapter of sorrow in Adoptive Rite the blue 
flower was said to teach the lesson of undying love; 
the yellow, unending possession; the white, heart 
purity; the green, undeviating sincerity; and the red, 
unfading beauty. 

In the funeral service in the same, the blue flower 
was to symbolize universal friendship; the yellow, 
disinterested kindness; white, truth and innocence; 
the green, immortality ; and the red, fervency. 

Macoy's Ritual had no explanation of the floral em- 
blems. 

In General Grand Chapter Ritual they were: "1. 
Violet; 2. Yellow jasamine; 3. White lily; 4. Fern; 
5. Red rose." 

The Rosary explanations were that the flowers were 
severally selected on account of their colors, but 
brother Morris had evidently associated the thought 
of these flowers with the several points before he 
incorporated them in the Rosary, as in 1855, he had 
written in a poem entitled "The Flowers of the 
Order:" 

Gleaned from plain and hill and valley, 

Grouped in mystic tie, 
Maidens read me, — gladness, sadness, — 

Ev'ry tongue have I ; — 
Violet, sunleaf, lily white, 

Pine eternal, — rose, delight. 

Macoy's Manual: 

Violet. Its retired, shrinking nature is emblem- 
atical of Jephthah's daughter, the devoted maid of 
Mispeh. 



134 DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

Sunflower. Emblematical of the ripened grain 
gleaned by Ruth, the pious widow of Moab. 

White lily. Emblematical of the white robes of 
Esther, the noble hearted queen of Persia. 

Pine leaf. Emblematical of Martha, the faithful 
sister of Bethany. 

Red rose. Emblematical of the unbounded charity 
and hospitality practiced by Electa. 

EMBLEMS IN CENTER OF STAR, 

These emblems are explained in Mosaic Book, Mor- 
ris's Manual, Rosary, Ladies' Eriend and General 
Grand Chapter Ritual, but are not mentioned in The- 
sauros, Tatem, or either of Macoy's. In the first four 
mentioned the explanations were elaborate, and con- 
nected each with one of the mottoes found in the bor- 
der of the signet, of which the following brief sum- 
mary embraces the salient points : 

They all allude to Christ, Who is the light and key 
to the Eastern Star, and Who is the Word of God; 
the Lily of the Valley; The Sun of Righteousness; 
the Lamb of God; and the Lion of the Tribe of 
Judah. Brother Morris put their objects in poetic 
phrase as follows: 

By that form of innocence, 

By that Bud of Peace, 
By that Word unbroken, spoken 

By the Son of Grace, 
Judah's Terror, — emblems five, 
Read we Him, and reading, live ! 

THE LABYRINTH. 

The labyrinth as in Mosaic Book, together with the 
stations of the officers and members, is represented in 
the accompanying illustration. It will be noticed that 
the single point of the star is up, or toward the east. 
In adapting the Mosaic Book for use in lodges of 
adoptive masonry Tatem dispensed with the Pillars, 
who occupied the outer points of the star (1, 2, 3, 4, 



DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 



135 



and 5), and left the sisters, who formed the inner 
angles of the star in the same stations, thus changing 
the position of the star, so that, practically, two points 
were toward the east. Some discussion has been had 



I* 



26 (Seats fbr Protectors 




/ ffe/eon 6 Luna (rfc/atif 

2 Philomath \ 7 F/orMRui/i) \ 

3 Merger ff /fefaf&lied \ 

4 //ero/d ~* 9 Thef/s(ff«rth*) 

v5 \/acant Chair <*n<l /OAremeff/ectaJ 
Banner 



// KiA/e- Bible 
/2 ZocAef/ ' Door 
/3 Warder 

A/l(hciirsft>ce£ji>U 



as to the origin and propriety of the latter position, 
as mythological teaching is that the star with one 
point up is an emblem of good, while with two points 
up it is an emblem of evil. Brother Morris was, per- 




136 DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

haps, not lacking in mythological lore when he penned 
the directions for forming the star with one point to- 
ward the east, bnt it will be easily seen that by the 
later development, in doing away with the outer 
points, the mythological significance of the star was 
altered without design, and probably 
by persons that were ignorant of the 
fact, and that it stood for the goat 
of Mendes. But in this particular, 
as in many others, brother Morris 
was not consistent, as in the tessera 
he placed the star with two points up. The changes in 
the work made by Tatem left the stations in order the 
reverse of the present usage. In the Tatem labyrinth 
the candidate entered at the southwest door, passed 
north in front of the Vice President's station in the 
west, was seated in the chair of the Conductor in the 
north, then passed the stations of the five patrons 
(Adah, Kuth, Esther, Martha, and Electa), from east 
to west, then south and east, then was seated in the 
banner chair southeast of Electa, and then east and 
north to the President's chair, from which place she 
was instructed and welcomed. 

Adoptive Kite was the first to delineate the star 
with two points toward the east. In that and Macoy's 
Ritual the candidate, after entrance, was stationed in 
the west, facing east, in which position the covenant 
of adoption was assumed; she then made a circuit 
around the altar to the first point; then to the second 
point by passing to the left of the altar; then round 
the altar to the third point, and so to the fourth and 
fifth points; then directly to the east. 

The General Grand Chapter Ritual was the first 
that provided a labyrinth of any particular signifi- 
cance, weaving out, as it does, a complete double star. 



.#%. 






* : * 






Wk 




; 
: 



K^S 



MACOY SIGNET. 



DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 137 

The Mosaic Book had this lecture: 

The pathway of human life meanders like this laby- 
rinth, and the most prudent pilgrim upon the journey 
fails to accomplish the plans with which he set out. 
He may go swiftly and prosperously forward a little 
ways, but suddenly his course is checked by obstacles 
he does not understand, and powers that he can not 
overcome. Again he attempts to move in the right 
line, to some new goal of his desires; again all for 
awhile may seem to conspire to accomplish his ends, 
when, unexpectedly as before, his way is stopped — 
and so all through his life, he drives from point to 
point, baffled and astonished at every turn, until 
wearied and disgusted with repeated disappointments 
and failures, and craving something that is not sub- 
ject to change and disaster, ha stands, at last, before 
the Great Light of all, and is accosted by the judge of 
quick and dead. 

MOTTOES. 

The cabalistic word is referred to in all rituals, and 
appears on all signets, as well as upon the seal of the 
Supreme Constellation. See illustration, chapter I. 

"We have seen His Star in the East and are come 
to worship Him," is on all signets except Macoy's. 

The Morris signet (see frontispiece), had the addi- 
tional mottoes: "The Bright and Morning Star;" 
"The Bose of Sharon, and the Lily of the Valley;" 
"The Star out of Jacob;" "The Sun of Righteous- 
ness;" "The Word;" "The Lamb of God;" "The 
Prince of Peace;" "The Lion of the Tribe of Judah;" 
and "The Day Star." 

OTHER SIGNET EMBLEMS. 

Thesauros designated the regalia for the several de- 
grees as follows: 1. apron; 2. glove; 3. band; 4. 
brooch; 5. collar; and the virtues: 1. obedience; 
2. attachment; 3. purity; 4. faith; 5. truth; were 
each represented by a five-pointed star on each point 
of the larger star, all of which are found on the Morris 
signet, and the seal of the Supreme Constellation. 



138 DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

SIGNETS. 

The various signets that have been used by the 
order are reproduced in fac simile, in reduced size. 
The Morris Signet was used under the family organi- 
zation and was inserted in the Rosary. The Macoy 
Signet was used by chapters working under the Su- 
preme Grand Chapter. The Engle Signet was de- 
signed by the author in 1879 and is used by all chap- 
ters working under the General Grand Chapter. 

BANNERS. 

In the Mosaic Book, the banner exhibiting "the 
head of the lion" was set up at one point of the star. 
(See diagram of labyrinth.) This was also used in the 
Addenda published by the Grand Chapter of Connec- 
ticut. 

TESSERA. 

The Mosaic Book said: 

The tessera is a metallic object in the form of a 
five-pointed star, the points being so disposed that one 
is directed downwards, in the front of which appears 
the lion, the symbol of this order, — on the back the 
name of the stella (or protector) who presents it, and 
the name and number of which she (or he) is or was 
last a member. The theory of the American Adoptive 
Rite is that every stella and protector is provided 
with a tessera, to answer as a visible token of mem- 
bership, in traveling, and to present to Warder at 
the door of the! constellation, as a testimonial of qual- 
ification. In such cases, however, as the loss of the 
tessera, or its being absent, or the party not having 
provided herself (or himself) with one, "Warder will 
provide in its stead a slip of card, or paper containing 
the name, locality, &c, of the party, and this may 
be exhibited to TIeleon on entering, as a substitute. 
!N*o person, member or visitor, can, under any ciicum- 
stances, enter a constellation without exhibiting the 
tessera or its substitute to Warder and Heleon. 

VOTING SIGN. 

The Mosaic Book provide i that " Votes in a constel- 
lation may best be taken by raised hands; this is 



DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 139 

where the ballot is not required." The General Grand 
Chapter adopted the same method for the government 
of itself only, in 1878. 

POSITIONS OF STAR OFFICERS. 

In Mosaic Book the Pillars and Correspondents s~t 
facing the bible. In California the star officers faced 
the east. In General Grand Chapter Revised the 
chairs were to be placed facing the east, or inclined 
toward the altar. The other rituals did not specify 
how these officers should face. 

FIRST FRUITS. 

In Thes&uros, at her initiation, the candidate was 
admonished : 

The first lesson taught you in this order was obe- 
dience to the word of God. He has bade us remember 
the poor and afflicted. You should exhibit your faith 
by your works, and I now request you to select some 
object of charity, and bestow upon it at your first op- 
portunity such an amount as your heart and means 
dictate. This will be reckoned the first fruits of your 
obedience, according to the word of God. "As for 
the oblation of the first fruits, you shall offer them 
unto the Lord." 

In the Mosaic Book, after having received the ini- 
tiatory degree 

JSTo preparation of the candidate, save a willing and 
obedient spirit, is demanded for this (Jephthah/s 
Daughter), or subsequent degrees. But, as a means 
of ascertaining the feelings which prompt the appli- 
cant to advance, it is recommended that she be solic- 
ited to devote a sum, small or great, according to her 
ability and disposition, to the widow's fund of the 
constellation, as the first fruits of her adoption. Mon- 
eys so received must be set apart in strict accordance 
with the wishes of the donor. 

SPONSORS. 

In Mosaic Book and Adoptive Rite, at the time of 
initiation, some one was required to be responsible 
for the good faith of the candidate. 



140 DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

EXAMINATION. 

The Mosaic Book provided that at an examination 
of a visitor a declaration should be made which an- 
swered the purpose of a test oath, and the examination 
consisted of thirty-five questions, covering colors, 
signs, and all the emblems and their allusions. 

CHRONOLOGY. 

In the Book of Instructions, the directions as to 
dating documents of the order were as follows: "1861, 
97th day; implied, April 17, 1861; 1863, 310th day; 
October 11, 1863 ;" etc. 

In Adoptive Bite, the year A. D., was supple- 
mented by "A. O. — Anno ordinis, — year of the order. 
To find this date subtract 1778 from the present 
year." 

ODES. 

The Mosaic Book contained an ode appropriate to 
each degree, the production of brother Morris: 
"Father! father, the joyful minstrel sang;" "From 
Moab's hills;" "Queen of Persia's broad domain;" 
"Low in the dust;" and, "Her gentle hand." In the 
second edition "The Dirge of the freemason's daugh- 
ter;" and "Love and light," were added. The first 
five were also in Morris's Manual. 

The family by-laws contained the five first above 
mentioned, and three others, including: 

Alas! my daughter, why these tears? 
Who is this so sad appears ? 
What wilt thou of thy sorrowing friend ? 
Believest thou this grief will end ? 
Love one another and thou'lt prove 
From all these tears an angel's love. 

Macoy's Manual introduced, "Here around the al- 
tar meeting," to the tune of "Just before the battle, 
mother;" and his subsequent publications contained 
substantially the same odes, with the addition of sev- 
eral familiar hymns. 



DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 141 

"When the General Grand Chapter ritual was first 
published, at the request of the chairman of the com- 
mittee on publication, Addie C. S. Bario (Engle), 
Past Grand Matron of Connecticut, wrote three odes, 
which were published in the collection issued by that 
body under the name of "Odes with music," viz.: 
"With earnest hearts and willing hands;" "Of Thee, 
Supreme Grand Power above;" and "Called from 
labor to repose." 

In 1882 Lorraine J. Pitkin, and Jennie E. Mathews, 
now Past Most Worthy Grand Matrons, issued a col- 
lection of odes entitled "Gems of Song for Eastern 
Star chapters;" and in 1899, Carrie P. Bradford, Past 
Matron, of Indianapolis, published, under the title of 
"The Musical Star," a collection of odes, and a com- 
plete arrangement of musical marches, etc., for the 
entire ceremonies of the chapter. 

PASS-WORDS. 

The Mosaic Book provided for "a memorial, com- 
municated semi-annually by the Supreme Constella- 
tion to Heleon, and by him to all Pillars and Cor- 
respondents, and such stellse and protectors as may 
contemplate traveling." 

The Book of Instructions: 

The Patron, immediately after his installation, se- 
lects one of the twenty-five words engraved around 
the border of the membership board, according to 
his own judgment, and communicates it to the mem- 
bers. This remains as the peculiar countersign of the 
family for twelve months. 

In California ritual an annual pass-word was taken 
up at the opening of the chapter. 

The practice now prevails in at least half a dozen 
jurisdictions of taking up a pass-word at the opening 
of both grand and subordinate chapters, but there is 
no authority in the ritual for such a custom, and the 



142 DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

General Grand Chapter in 1895, decided that a pass- 
word was not necessary. 

Formerly, in Connecticut, and possibly in other 
states, it was the practice for the Matron to announce, 
before the opening of the chapter: "We will open with 
the pass of Adah; — or one other of the five points, 
and the pass designated was taken up by the Conduc- 
tress and Associate Conductress; and the Grand Chap- 
ter of Michigan, at its meeting in 1900, passed a reso- 
lution allowing this to be done, as does also the Grand 
Chapter of Wisconsin. 

SIGNS, ETC. 

The tuilleur which was printed in the Mosaic Book 
gave specific directions as to the 
manner of giving all the secret 
work, and the signs were illustrated 
by artistic engravings of each move- 
ment, which agree substantially 
with those prescribed in Morris's 
Manual, the Macoy syllabus, and 
with those now in use save that 
the fourth sign was given kneeling; 
and the third movement of the 
W^ third sign was as here illustrated. 
The directions for a responsive sign were: 
Place the right hand upon the center of the breast, 
then move it slowly upward and forward to the full 
length of the arm. This was said to point out the 
source from whence adoptive masonry receives its il- 
lumination. 

The passes remain unchanged from the beginning. 
The words "ten" and "and," were dropped from the 
motto by the General Grand Chapter. 

In Mosaic Book the bible was to be opened at 
Isaiah lxiii. 

Thesauros prescribed white and green as "the 
mourning colors of the order from time immemorial." 




DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 143 

Masons' sisters were given the precedence in a funeral 
procession, followed in order by daughters; widows; 
wives; and sister-in-laws; "brought up in the rear 
by the brother protectors." 

BANQUETS. 

The Mosaic Book recommended that "Every meet- 
ing, whether stated or called, should be concluded, 
when practicable, with a social repast." 

In the Book of Instructions a ceremony was pro- 
vided for the opening of a banquet, behind tyled 
doors, beginning with an invocation : 

Source of every earthly pleasure, 

Bounteous Author of all good, 
In Thy mercy's largest measure, 

Bless this meeting and this food. 
Grateful hearts will then adore Thee, 

Grateful lives Thy mercy own, 
Till in heaven we stand before Thee, 

Till we worship by Thy throne. 

Then each of five officers held up a pasteboard let- 
ter, about an inch in height, representing the cabalistic 
word, and alternately repeated a word of the motto. 

Then five other officers and members (not visitors), 
commencing with the Recorder and going around on 
his left, hold up the stars (biscuits baked very hard 
.and dry, cut in the form of a five u pointed star, about 
the size of a silver dollar), and as each breaks off one 
point, he or she repeats the explanation as follows: 

Recorder — Remember the birth of Christ ! Remem- 
ber the life of Christ ! Remember the death of ChrLt ! 
Remember the resurrection of Christ ! Remember the 
ascension of Christ! 

Then all present, officers, members, and visitors, 
hold up their boquets (of flowers of the ~Q.Ye colors) 
and repeat the following invocations, the Patron lead- 
ing the way, and the rest responding in unison: 

Break off a blue flower and repeat: Blessed are the 
poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Then followed four other beatitudes in a similar 
manner. Toward the close of the banquet five regular 



144 DEGREES, EMBLEMS, ETC. 

toasts were given, with another ceremonial breaking 
and eating of a star biscuit. They were of a stereo- 
typed character of which the following will serve as 
a specimen: 

Lasting honor to her — and whosoever resembles 
her — who cheerfully resigned her life to vindicate 
the honor of her father. 

ADDITIONAL DEGREES. 

Thesauros declared "The Order of the Eastern Star 
embraces five degrees and no more, nor can further 
degrees ever be legally accumulated upon it." 

Macoy's Standard : 

The rite of adoption was never designed to be 
wholly embodied within the limits of one degree, but 
like that great institution into whose' fraternal organi- 
zation it was intended to be adopted, it should teach its 
lessons step by step, each advancing ceremony to be 
higher, and more instructive in principle and design. 

The Grand Chapter of New York adopted the 
Worthy Matron's degree in 1873, the Floral "Work 
in 1882 and the Sisterhood degree in 1895. 

In 1877 the Grand Chapter of Mississippi author- 
ized its subordinates to confer the Mason's Daughter; 
Heroine of Jericho; Queen of the South; and Cross 
and Crown. 

The General Grand Chapter in 1895 approved the 
action of the Most Worthy Grand Matron in refusing 
to recognize any so-called higher degrees; and in 
1898 it 

Resolved, that there are no degrees connected in 
any way or manner with oar order other than those 
provided for and taught in the ritual. 

Resolved, that any member willfully representing 
to any one that there are side degrees, higher degrees, 
or any degrees other than those taught and provided 
for by our ritual, shall be guilty of conduct unbecom- 
ing a member of the order, and, upon conviction 
thereof, shall be suspended or expelled from the 
order. 



CHAPTEK VI. 



MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 

THERE have been issued in limited numbers 
works containing arrangements of ceremonies to 
be used in lieu of portions of the work, or as additions 
thereto, the oldest being two issued by the Grand 
Chapter of Connecticut, viz.: 

"Short Specimen Dramas, founded on Scripture 
subjects." This embraced the four degrees of the 
Mosaic Book, revised, which chapters were allowed 
to use in place of the regular ritual, and they are still 
so used, occasionally, by at least one chapter in Con- 
necticut. 

"Addenda." This supplied many things that were 
needful to round out the work under Adoptive Rite.. 
It was largely adapted from the Mosaic Book, and in- 
cluded explanations of the colors, emblems, etc. 

"Monitor of the Exemplified Work," was printed b^y 
Minneapolis Chapter No. 9, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 
the use of which was made the groundwork for the 
beginning of what was popularly known as the Min- 
nesota muddle. It was an attempt to* inject into the 
degrees, as in the General Grand Chapter ritual, cer- 
tain dramatic effects, substituting for portions of the 
lectures, dramatic action. It was much briefer than 
the Mosaic Book, and lacked the grandeur that that 
contained. There was nothing in common between 
the two, and it is evident that the authors of the latter 
work had never seen the former. 

THE MEMORIAL SERVICE. 

Chapter of Sorrow, by Addie C. S. Engle. This 
service, written in 1888, and approved by the General 

10 (145) 



146 MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 

Grand Chapter, has found wide acceptance with the 
order, and has been officially adopted by many 
grand chapters, both for their own use and that of 
their subordinates. It embraces opening and closing 
ceremonies with parts for all the officers, and provides 
for the forming of a floral star surrounded by a 
wreath, which, with other emblems, are deposited 
upon a memorial shrine. There are also original 
hymns, and the dedication is to Rob Morris, who 
passed beyond this life a few months before; it was 
written, in these lines: 

The harp which late so sweetly rang 

Hangs stringless now and still ; 
The master wakes its chords no more 

Obedient to his will. 

0, who shall wake again that lyre 

And sing our order's weal ? 
Who follow in his steps, and to 

Our vows be ever leal ? 

The* cause he loved he honored well, 

Its light he followed far ; 
Death's gloomy vale was all illumed 

By Bethlehem's holy Star. 

To chant with joy redemption's song 

May voice to him be given, 
The song of Moses and the Lamb, 

The melody of heaven. 

It is designed for public use, and is calculated to 
make the very best impression upon non-members. 

CHAPTER OF SORROW. 

In 1S86, Charles C. Dike, Past Grand Patron of 
Massachusetts, published an edition of the Macoy 
chapter of sorrow, with very slight changes, the prin- 
cipal one being the giving of certain portions of the 
ceremony that in the Macoy were performed by the 
Patron, to the Matron. 



MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 147 

FUNERAL CEREMONIES. 

About 1876, Golden Gate Chapter No. 1, of San 
Francisco, published a funeral ceremony, which was 
an adaptation of that contained in Adoptive Kite. 
Provision was made for the rendering of the first por- 
tion of it in the chapter room, instead of at the grave; 
all of it was rendered by the Matron instead of the 
Patron; and the star parts were entirely left out, the 
floral star being deposited in the grave with these 
words : 

This floral emblem of the Eastern Star, framed 
from Nature's loveliest materials, is emblematical of 
that pure life to which our sister has been called, 
and reminds us that as these children of an hour will 
drop and fade away, so we too shall soon follow those 
who have gone before us. I now deposit this emblem 
of our order in the grave of our departed sister. Here 
may she sleep in peace, where the murmurs of the 
winds and trees will chant their eternal requiem, and 
the fairest flowers affection's hand can plant will cover 
her grave with perpetual bloom. 

THE QUEEN OF THE SOUTH. 

This was an adaptation by brother Macoy of a de- 
gree arranged by brother Morris, probably from some 
form in which he had received it orally, and it is one 
of the crudest productions that was ever published 
as a degree from the pens of these brethren. Al- 
though it was incorporated in some editions of Ma- 
coy's rituals, it never was rendered with any regu- 
larity, that I can learn of, in any chapter. In fact 
I do not know that it was ever worked more than once 
or twice. It enlisted all the fourteen officers of a chap- 
ter, and was rendered in the royal palace of king 
Solomon, on mount Zion who is 

seated upon his great throne of ivory, overlaid 
with pure gold, surrounded with his officers and cour- 
tiers, and the kings of foreign nations, ambassadors, 
philosophers, and others who had come to gather wis- 
dom from his lips. 



148 MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 

The purpose of the degree was well set forth in an 
address to the court: 

In this beautiful allegory we have considered the 
objections urged against the admission of ladies into 
the knowledge of masonic principles. Those objections 
advanced by king Solomon were so easily answered 
and refuted by the queen of the South, that it was 
impossible even for the wisest of men to maintain 
them. 

The argument referred to was carried on between 
king Solomon and the officers of the chapter as prox- 
ies for the candidate, who represented the queen of 
Sheba. 

THE CROSS AND CROWN. 

Brother Maeoy's original plan, which he worked 
out, on paper, in 1875, was to make the Queen of the 
South the second, and the Cross and Crown the third 
degree in the Adoptive Rite, but the latter was no 
more suited to enlist the interest of intelligent per- 
sons than was the former, and if anything it was 
cruder and more lacking in unity. It was to be 
worked by chapter officers in a body called a court, 
the point officers forming a cross instead of a star. 
The degree consisted of the brief mention of five 
American women who had been foreign missionaries ; 
the presentation of five objections to masonry on be- 
half of the women, and their refutation by the Pa- 
tron; the mention of four great crosses in human life: 
ingratitude, poverty, sickness and death, which may 
culminate in the crown of life: and the application 
of five religious graces: piety, friendship, resignation, 
truth and constancy. The ritual was illustrated with 
banners for the five divisions of the degree which cov- 
ered the baptism, temptation, agony, crucifixion and 
ascension of the Saviour. It would require a wise 
ritualist to take this abundance of incongruous ma- 
terial and work it all into one harmonious degree. It 
is no wonder that the attempt was a failure. 



MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 149 

MATRON'S ADMINISTRATIVE DEGREE. 

This was a production of brother Macoy, and was 
to be conferred upon Matrons before their installation, 
or as soon thereafter as possible in an administrative 
council, made up of Past Matrons and Past Patrons, 
and was founded upon the scripture narrative of De- 
borah and Barak, and was intended "to explain and 
dignify the powers, duties, and responsibilities of the 
presiding officer of a warranted chapter." The ob- 
ject was to show "what strong faith in a single wo- 
man may do for a whole nation. 77 

STAR AND CROSS, OR PREPARATORY WORK. 

This was by S. Clark, Past Patron of Badiant Chap- 
ter No. 35, of New York, who dedicated it to John 
J. Sproull, Past Grand Secretary of New York, and 
was published in 1876. It consisted solely of scrip- 
ture recitations, and marches. To it was appended a 
lesson of purity, with a suitable introduction. Its 
purpose was stated in the preface. 

"With the restoration of the adoptive rite under 
the names of the Eastern Star the figure of the Saviour 
was presented in the symbol of the Star of Bethle- 
hem, but the teachings of the Great Master were omit- 
ted. It resembled the clay image ere immortal breath 
had quickened it. This little work which is added, 
are the words and teachings of him of whom the star 
is the symbol, and is calculated and intended to pre- 
pare the mind of the initiate for a proper reception of 
the ritual. * * * * It not only, by due sol- 
emnity, prepares the mind for a proper reception of 
the main work, but is also calculated to impress it 
with the beauty and truth of the sacred scriptures, by 
planting the germ which will only require culture to 
ultimate in purity of life, by leading the votary the 
true path to heaven and a blessed immortality. 77 

v THE AMARANTH. 

This was intended by brother Macoy as the third 
auld highest degree in his revised system of adoptive 



150 MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 

masonry, and the "Court" consisted of the same num- 
ber of officers as a chapter, but they were given more 
exalted titles. The Matron and Patron were "Royal," 
while all the others had "Honored" prefixed to their 
titles. After assuming the obligation, the candidate 
was caused to partake of salt and bread with the offi- 
cers, "To share bread and salt with another is to ex- 
change confidence and pledge hospitality." "By this 
act we, in behalf of this chapter, seal and make per- 
petual our mutual bond of friendship." The lessons 
at the points were! Truth, Faith, Wisdom, and Char- 
ity. One of the most beautiful passages was at the 
fourth point, Charity: 

There is a beautiful thought conveyed in the 
legend, that on the shores of the Adriatic sea the 
wives of the fishermen, whose husbands have gone 
far off upon the deep, are in the habit, at eventide, of 
going down to the sea-shore and singing the first verse 
of a favorite hymn. After they have sung it, they 
listen till they hear, borne! by the winds across the des- 
ert sea, the second verse, sung by their husbands as 
they are tossed by the gale upon the waves, thus ren- 
dering happiness to all. Perhaps, if we listen, we too 
may hear, in the: desert world, some whisper borne 
from afar, to remind us that there is a heavenly 
home; and when we sing a hymn upon earth, it may 
be we shall hear its echo breaking in sweet melody 
upon the sands of time, cheering the hearts of those 
who, perchance, are pilgrims and strangers, looking 
for a city that hath sure foundations. (When pos- 
sible to do so, a choir of ladies and gentlemen will 
sing two verses of a familiar hymn; the ladies, being 
in a distant part of the chapter room, will sing the 
first verse, and the gentlemen, in an adjoining room, 
with the door ajar, will sing the second verse.) 

The candidate arriving in the East the Royal 
Matron said 

The ceremony by which Knighthood is conferred 
is called the accolade. Conforming to this custom, 



MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 151 

and by the authority vested in me, I receive you 
(places a sword on the left and right shoulders, and 
on the head of the candidate), and confer upon yru 
the dignity of a Lady of the Royal and Exalted de- 
gree of the Amaranth; and as the Amaranthine 
flower is typical of undying friendship and eternal 
truth, so with this right hand accept our pledge of an 
abiding trust, and a cordial reception into our fel- 
lowship. 

Conducted to the "West she was crowned with a 
wreath : 

This is no diadem of gold ; no cinture of pearls ; no 
regal tiara; no frame-work of gems, velvet lined, like 
that which so often presses upon the aching brows of 
royalty. That is a badge of power; frequently empty, 
unsubstantial, and delusive. But our crown and our 
act of coronation have a higher and a nobler meaning, 
We crown you as being eminent for virtue, zeal, and 
well-doing; showing charity to the destitute, and 
faithful in every walk of life. May all your foot- 
steps fall upon flowers. May all your good intentions 
be fraught with success. May your last days be your 
best. We crown you in the hope of immortality. 
There is no death to the pure and loving. May your 
admission to the land celestial and everlasting be sure, 
and your entrance full of delight. And as the years 
roll along and bring about the great consummation 
for which we all hopefully wait, may your ransomed 
spirit be crowned with the never-ceasing favor of Al- 
mighty God. 

The candidate was then made to bear the banner 
of the order which embraced the Eastern Star within 
which was a circle bearing the letters H. E. B. A. S. 
while in the center was an Amaranthine wreath. 

THE FLORAL WORK. 

This was the work of brother Alonzo J. Burton, of 

Xew York, in which the candidate is presented with 
appropriate flowers by each of the point officers, and 



152 MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 

the Associate Conductress. A full programme of 
vocal music usually accompanies it, as well as the ren- 
dering of the floral march, in which figures and let- 
ters are formed by the officers participating. This 
work has been officially adopted and published by the 
Grand Chapter of New York, and the work as ar- 
ranged by John N. Bunnell, Past Grand Patron of 
New Jersey, has been adopted by some other grand 
chapters, and is widely used; few of those who have 
enjoyed witnessing it probably know who its modest 
author is. 

It includes some of the secret work, and should 
only be given in private, but several jurisdictions al- 
low its public use, the seciet parts being, of course, 
omitted. Ten officers participate in its rendering. 

SISTERHOOD DEGREE. 

This was the invention of brother Alonzo J. Bur- 
ton, and was adopted by the Grand Chapter of New 
York, but we believe was never printed. It was in- 
tended to follow the degrees of the Eastern Star, and 
the officers were entitled Honored Matron, Associate, 
Deaconness, Preceptress, Treasurer, Secretary, 
"Warder, Sentinel, Faith, Hope and Charity. The life 
of Mary, the mother of Jesus, formed the foundation 
of the degree, although the ladder of Jacob was 
brought in to support the lessons of faith, hope and 
charity. The lessons of the degree were beautiful, 
as witness the following : 

Through the darkness of doubt and gloom we ad- 
vance toward the light and truth; through the clouds 
and shadows of the night of death we pass into the 
realms of immortality. The afflictions and calami- 
ties of life which are its darkness, and the; gloom 
which broods over the precincts of the grave, not the 
light of health and the enjoyment of prosperity, 
chasten us and fit us for eternal life. 



MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 153 

The birth of the Saviour is rehearsed, but there is a 
confounding of the Shepherds with the "Wise Men 
which is so common and so strange In many ways 
the degree is of superior merit, and is worthy of wider 
use than it has attained, as an addenda to the work. 

THE VOCAL STAR. 

This is by Addie C. S. Engle, and was written for, 
and first rendered by the Past Grand Matrons of 
Michigan before that body in 1890. It is not, as 
many infer from its title, a musical production, al- 
though music, both vocal and instrumental, can be 
very profitably introduced into it, but it is an at- 
tempt to give the star of our chapter a voice as well 
by types and symbols, by emblems and flowers, as by 
words. Its object is briefly summarized in its intro- 
ductory : 

In the inception of the: Order of the Eastern Star 
some' imagery was used in its ritualistic work which 
has not been retained in the present initiatory cere- 
mony. Those who remember the well-loved symbol- 
ism, and regret its omission, will welcome! this attempt 
to preserve some of it from oblivion, and the author 
cheerfully acknowledges her indebtedness to the; old 
Mosaic work; to the ritual of Adoptive: Masonry as 
formerly used in Michigan; to the Connecticut ad- 
denda, and to the first ritual of the General Grand 
Chapter, whose explanation of the resemblance be- 
tween the language of the emblematic flowers and 
the heroines they represent, had been too' carefully 
made to be entirely lost. The balance is original with 
her who, being earnestly engaged in the work when 
these various figures were used, has treasured them in 
her heart through many changes, and with a simple 
arrangement of her own, now offers them for the en- 
joyment of others. 



154 MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 

The work is usually accompanied by the vocal star 
march, in which various letters and figures are 
formed, the voice of the star closing with these words: 

Accept now, dear friends, as we part here to-night, 

Our wish that the bright Vocal Star 
May cheer you through life with its radiance bright; 

And pierce every gloom from afar. 
The Star in the East with its lesson fraught ray, 

If taken at once for our guide ; 
Shall lighten each lab'rinth we meet on life's way, 

And comfort, whatever betide; 
Its five radiant beams earth's dim pathway shall gild, 

Its blue shall combine with its gold, 
Its red and its green with rich treasures be filled, 

All teaching the same gospel old; 
And when their rich lessons, our spirits shall con, 

We then learn this truth (strangely odd); 
That all of the colors our souls must put on, 

To make up the white light of God ! 

Accept then our wishes for happiness blest, 

As " forth in the world," we all go ; 
"Not knowing what trials," but leaving the rest 

With Him who '"upholds" as we go. 
God grant that we meet, where our Star shall await, 

When earth robe and staff' are laid down, 
And pass through the entrance of that pearly gate, 

Where cross is exchanged for the crown. 

THE MYSTIC TIE. 

This is a ceremony for the reception of grand of- 
ficers, and other distinguished visitors, by Addie C. 
S. Engle, and enlists sixteen officers. It includes the 
formation of marches, of the star, cross, and square, 
and brings out the teachings of the jewels of the 
order. After the presentation of flowers for the 
guests the mystic chain is formed, and the ceremony 
closes with: 

Dear members of the mystic tie, 

Walk as beneath the All-seeing Eye. 
Live true the vows we've uttered here, 
And prove we hold them sacred, dear. 

Our jeweled links should each proclaim 

Our truth in deed as well as name. 



MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 155 

Thus, from our earthly life-work fair, 

The outside world can vision there 
All of the love, relief and truth 
Which we now hold as highest ruth. 

Then, when our links, quick broken, fall 
And each one hears the angel-call, 

May no far scattered tie be lost, 

From out the grand celestial host, 
But our fraternal chain of love 
Still brighter glow in realms above. 

God grant we form this severed chain 

And meet these broken links again 
Within the golden sunrise land 
Where Love divine shall clasp the band. 

THE PILGRIMS. 

This, by Ella A. Bigelow, of Massachusetts, is 
largely in verse and musical, and requires five offi- 
cers and seven pilgrims, tine latter entering, clothed 
in "black and presenting offerings to the Matron, who 
crowns each, and communicates to her a pass-word. It 
can be rendered publicly. 

THE GUIDING LIGHT. 

This is a poetical production with parts for the 
various officers, by Julia C. Tenney, of Orange, 
Massachusetts, and is a very pleasing ceremony, re- 
iterating in new form the lessons of the order. 

DECORATION CEREMONY. 

The proper title of this is "A ceremonial for ob- 
servance at the resting places of our beloved dead," 
by Julia C. Tenney. The title gives a good idea of its 
purpose. Provision is made for forming several evo- 
lutions, and the text breathes the poetic spirit of the 
author, as 

"We come not in sable garb, we bear no cypress 
wreaths to place above the sleeping dust beneath us; 
but the fresh, fragrant flowers of love and trust we 
scatter here; and unto the freed ones who now walk 
in wider fields, gathering richer bloom, and who may, 
even now, be listening unto us, with tender voice we 
cry, "Mizpah," Beloved. 



156 MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 

THE STAR-CROWNED CROSS. 

This is an addenda by Julia C. Tenney, principally 
in verse, and into it are woven several marches, and 
considerable music, both vocal and instrumental. The 
formation of a floral, star-crowned cross is impres- 
sively done. The following will give an idea of the 
style : 

We bind them in chaplets snowy, 

And their crimson petals strew 
O'er the hearts who fondly loved us 

In the days of long ago. 
And often a tender memory 

Is born of their rare perfume, 
And a sweet-voiced mother whispers, 

Our pathway to illume. 
'Twas there, by the dear old cottage, 

From the porch above the door, 
We gathered the old-time beauties. 

In the days that are no more ! 
'Twas there, in the dusky twilight, 

When the night dropped softly down, 
She told us the old, old story, 

Of the Star — the Cross — the Crown ! 

MAGIC LANTERN MONITOR. 

This was an .arrangement by Kimball Sedgwick, of 
Sunbury, Ohio-, by which the lantern slides illustrat- 
ing the work of the order, were explained by a beau- 
tiful lecture made up largely of excerpts from the 
poems of brother Morris, sister Engle, Susanna C. 
Russell, and selected hymns. In the publication of 
his work brother Sedgwick included the portraits of 
many of the leading members of the order in the 
country, and particularly in his own state. 

CONSTITUTING AND OTHER CEREMONIES. 

Most of the grand chapters have at different times 
set forth forms for instituting and constituting chap- 
ters, and some of them ceremonies for opening and 
closing grand chapter, but they are drawn upon par- 



MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 157 

allel lines, and do not demand separate or special 
mention. 

A REVIEW. 

This was a review of the critical and explanatory 
notes of Robert Macoy, of the, ritual of the Order of 
the Eastern Star as published by authority of the 
General Grand Chapter, by Willis D. Engle, and was 
published in 1879, soon after the publication of "Crit- 
ical and Explanatory Notes," and contained all of said 
notes, with a specific answer to each of them. It was 
intended to set before the members of the order its 
true status at that time, and was gratuitously circu- 
lated by the General Grand Chapter. It was a 32mo 
book of forty pages. All the essential facts are cov- 
ered by this history, and yet the little book must ever 
prove of interest to Eastern Star antiquarians as pre- 
senting a nearer view of the matters in controversy 
than it would have been advisable to incorporate 
herein. 

"A MONUMENT OF GRATITUDE, 

To illustratrious sisters and brothers, officers and past 
officers, of all Eastern Star chapters; to grand and past 
grand officers of all governing bodies of the rite; 
finally, to all members of the Order of the Eastern 
Star, and all who respect long and faithful service, 
this appeal for a thank offering to Robert Morris, 
Founder and Patriarch of the Eastern Star order, is 
lovingly and hopefully presented by the committee." 
Such was the title of a thirty-two page pamphlet 
issued by brother Morris in 1884, the object of which 
was to raise a fund, in shares of five dollars each, to 
be permanently invested in interest-paying securities 
for the sole benefit of brother Morris and his wife. 
An elegant, engraved certificate, and an elegant 
medal in bronze, were' to- be presented to each share- 
holder. The money was to be sent to the Grand Pa- 



158 MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 

tron having jurisdiction, or direct to brother Morris, 
and a full list of contributors, with the amounts, etc., 
was to be published, and a copy sent to each sub- 
scriber, but it is believed that this effort was not suc- 
cessful, and that neither the certificates nor medals 
were ever issued. In the pamphlet was contained a 
seven-page history of the origin of the order, by 
brother Morris, which embraced many erroneous 
statements, a few of which have already been noticed. 
Some which have not been were the statements that 
the Mosaic Book was prepared in 1856; and the Mor- 
ris Manual in 1859, while the correct dates were 1855 
and 1860 respectively. 

IN RE MINNESOTA MATTER— SPECIAL REPORT. 

In 1886 the Most Worthy Grand Patron made a 
special report to the General Grand Chapter on mat- 
ters connected with the order in Minnesota, which 
was published before the meeting of that body, that 
its members might have a full statement of the case 
in type, but the body did not deem it advisable that it 
should be incorporated in the proceedings. The Most 
"Worthy Grand Matron had not been in accord with 
the Most Worthy Grand Patron in his actions in the 
premises, and presented her views in her address, but 
after the body had passed upon them, the following 
request was granted: 

The M. W. Grand Matron requests the privilege of 
eliminating from her address such portions as refer 
to the personal differences between herself and the 
M. W. Grand Patron in relation to the Minnesota 
case, as she has no desire, neither does she deem it 
proper, that such matters should be brought to the 
attention of the outside world, yet she felt it to be 
justice to herself that she be permitted to call the at- 
tention of this grand body to the facts alluded to in 
that portion of her address. 



MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 159 

As the address of the Most Worthy Grand Matron 
had not been previously printed, it was lost to the 
order, but copies of the special report of the Most 
Worthy Grand Patron are preserved as valuable me- 
mentoes. 

FACTS CONCERNING O. E. S. MATTERS IN MINNESOTA. 

This was a pamphlet of twenty-nine pages set forth 
by Grand Chapter No. 2, March 25, 1890, and in- 
tended to show the case as seen from its standpoint, 
and contained much information not embraced in the 
printed proceedings of either grand chapter. 

A PLAIN STATEMENT. 

This was a document of eighteen pages issued by 
the principal officers of Grand Chapter No. 1, July 
15, 1890, in response to the document named above, 
and was incorporated in the proceedings of the body 
for that year. 

NAMES OF CHAPTERS. 

In a "Monument of Gratitude," brother Morris had 
quite an extended article on the names given to chap- 
ters, which he classified. Any one giving attention 
to the subject will be struck with the contrast that 
exists between the nomenclature of the order and 
that of the masonic. Tie divided the names of the 
chapters as they then existed, into classes, as follows: 
1, Heroines of the 1 order and other ladies; 2, Solar, 
stellar and celestial terms; 3, Terms from field, forest 
and garden; 4, Names of sacred and memorial locali- 
ties; 5, Names of gems and objects of ornament; 6, 
Names derived from freemasonry; 7, Miscellaneous. 
The best rule, under ordinary circumstances, is to 
name the chapter after its location, thus identifying 
it at once and avoiding confusion. Thus Minnesota 
has Jasper chapter at Rush City, and Taylor chapter 
at Jasper; Oregon, Elgin at Myrtle Point, and Blue 



160 MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 

Mountain at Elgin; Washington, Tern at Tacoma, and 
Iv y at Tern Hill ; Indiana, Clinton at Frankfort, and 
Jerusalem at Clinton; Liberty at Sylvania, and Violet 
at Liberty; Illinois, Victoria at Patoka, and Vera at 
Victoria; Virginia at Ashmore, and Ada Robinson 
at Virginia; Eureka at Louisville, and Doric at Eure- 
ka; Normal at DeKalb, and Felicity at Normal. 
Some good opportunities it would seem have been 
missed: e. g., the chapter at Morris, Minnesota, is 
named Corinthian; that at Hope, North Dakota, is 
named Fidelity; that at Eldorado, Kansas, Andrina, 
and at St. Johns, Henry Bohr. The chapter at Lake- 
view, Arkansas, is called Carden's Bottom; that at 
Morris, Illinois, is Laurel. Some felicitous departures 
are: Celestial City, at Pekin, Illinois; Merry Meet- 
ing, at Fairfield, Maine; and Happy Home, at Hol- 
denville, Indian Territory. Vermont is the only jur- 
isdiction, we believe, in which none of the chapters is 
named after the place in which it is located. 

PERIODICALS. 

There have been a number of exclusively Eastern 
Star monthlies published in different parts of the 
country, but we believe only three survive. Most of 
the masonic journals devote space to the news and in- 
terests of the order. The oldest exclusively Eastern 
Star journal is The Eastern Star, now in its thirteenth 
year, published by Nettie Hansford, Past Most 
Worthy Grand Matron, at Indianapolis, at one dollar 
per year. The next is The Signet, now in its eighth 
volume, published by Inez Jamison Bender, at De- 
catur, Illinois, at fifty cents per annum; and the third 
Mizpah, in its seventh volume, published by Ella A. 
Bigelow, at Marlborough, Massachusetts, at one dol- 
lar per year. They are each monthlies of sixteen 
pages, and should command larger support than 
they receive. Nothing more tends to promote inter- 



MINOR RITUALS, CEREMONIES, ETC. 161 

est in the order than the regular perusal of such pe- 
riodicals, as they tend to keep the members in touch 
with the order generally, and to give them a better 
idea of its growth and work. 

POEMS. 

Brother Morris, "the poet Laureate of Freema- 
sonry," wielded a graceful pen, and his poems in con- 
nection with the Eastern Star were valuable addi- 
tions to its literature, and were, perhaps, the most 
numerous of any writer. The widest used poem is 
that of H. T. Stanton, "In mason's hall," as it was 
also among the first, after the productions of brother 
Morris. Addie C. S. Engle, has written some twenty 
poems in the interest of the order, while Hattie E. 
Pannelee, of Iowa, has written one for each point 
of the star, and one entitled, "Our Altar." Other 
writers who have made valuable contributions in this 
line, include Bessie K. Hastings, Past Grand Matron 
of Ohio, L. Timmerman of Michigan, Susannah C. 
Russell of Indiana, Clarissa B. Curtiss, Past Grand 
Matron of Connecticut, Charles McCutcheon, Past 
Grand Secretary of Washington, Mary L. Paine, Past 
Grand Matron of Vermont, Giles P. Brown of Mich- 
igan, and J. E. H. Boardman. Many of these poems 
are familiar to the members of the order, as they are 
frequently used to promote the interest of the chapter 
meetings, under the head of "The good of the order." 



PART TWO. 



CONTAINING A CONCISE BUT COPIOUS HISTORY OF 
THE GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER, AND OF ALL 
GRAND CHAPTERS, FROM THEIR ORGANIZATION 
TO THE CLOSE OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 



(163) 



GRAXD CHAPTER HISTORIES. 



IJST THIS part is first presented a list of the various 
grand bodies of the order in the order of their or- 
ganization; which is followed, first by a history of 
the General Grand Chapter, and then by histories of 
the different grand chapters in alphabetical order. In 
these sketches the aim has been to give the essential 
facts, and to record, such things of note as are of gen- 
eral interest, or out of the ordinary. In most of them, 
under the general head of decisions, are noted, in 
brief form, the actions had on various legal points. 
These actions may have been in the form of decisions 
of the presiding officer, approved by the grand chapter ; 
by resolution of a grand chapter; or by a law adopted 
by it. There is a general trend toward uniformity; 
the jurisprudence of the order is fast crystalizing, and 
the General Grand Chapter has done much toward se- 
curing uniformity in this direction, as it has secured 
absolute uniformity, so far as the same can be hoped 
for, in the ritualistic work. It is not possible, if indeed 
it were desirable, that the work should be rendered 
in absolutely the same manner in every chapter. 
Some chapters have greater means and ability than 
others, and will employ them toward the embellish- 
ing of the ritualistic work, and will find material 
profit in the use of robes, marches, and addendas, that 
other chapters, of more limited opportunities, can not 
employ. In that branch of the Catholic Church in 
which the writer has the privilege to minister, the 
motto of the undivided church has practical illustra- 
tion: "In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in 

(165) 



166 GRAND CHAPTER HISTORIES. 

all tilings charity;" and thje order can find no better 
lines on which to regulate its rendition of ritualistic 
work. Whatever will add to the impressiveneBs of the 
work, without involving a departure from the forms 
laid down in the established ritual, should be hailed 
with pleasure by all who love the order, but nothing 
should find acceptance that is a departure in a serious 
way from the wording and spirit of the ritual. We do 
not believe that our ritual has attained that degree of 
perfection that it can not be improved, but frequent 
changes should be avoided, and should not find place 
until they have been seriously and maturely consid- 
ered, and, indeed they must be under the law of the 
General Grand Chapter governing the subject. The 
ritual to-day is exactly as adopted in 1889; some alter- 
ations have been approved by the General Grand 
Chapter, but none of them have had final action in 
that body, so that those grand officers who- have an- 
nounced to their grand chapters that it has been 
changed in any particular have labored under a 
wrong impression. 

While the decisions and actions of the General 
Grand Chapter, on subjects other than the ritual, are 
binding only on the subordinate chapters under its im- 
mediate jurisdiction, they have had their influence 
upon most of the grand chapters, as e. g. the adoption 
of a test oath by it in 1895 has been generally fol- 
lowed, although but two or three grand chapters used 
one before that time; the ruling that the 1 brother on an 
investigating committee must report before a petition 
can be balloted upon, has been generally followed, as 
has also- the acceptance of the raised right hand as a 
voting sign. 

As to the eligibility of step-daughters to the degrees 
the General Grand Chapter and most of the grand 
chapters have decided against it, although Connecti- 



GRAND CHAPTER HISTORIES. 167 

cut, Massachusetts, Montana, and Texas admit them. 
The general practice is to admit half-sisters and 
adopted daughters, although New Jersey, New York, 
and some other grand chapters do not. Iowa admits 
a deaf and dumb person, and Illinois and Wisconsin 
admit the blind. The General Grand Chapter and 
several grand chapters draw the line on one-armed 
persons, while Illinois and some others admit them. 
Nebraska admits an adopted mother, and Massachu- 
setts an adopted sister. Michigan admits the daughter 
of a dimitted mason, if he belongs to the Royal Arch 
chapter and commandery. In the early days, mar- 
ried women were; admitted under eighteen years of 
age, such decisions being made in Illinois, Kansas, 
and Texas in the later eighties, and in Indiana in 
1895 and New York in 1896. In Mississippi it was 
decided that such an one was eligible "provided her 
husband is willing, and is not unfriendly to ma- 
sonry," and a lady lacking a few months of sixteen 
but "about grown," was admitted by dispensation. 
Alhough not a law, the practice is almost universal 
for the sisters to remove their hats and wraps during 
meetings of the chapters. 

The taking up of a pass-word is practiced in some 
five or six jurisdictions. The question of the age at 
which children should be excluded from the chapter 
has been ruled on many times, the rulings varying 
from the exclusion of them at any age, up to three 
years. The general law of a quorum is seven mem- 
bers, including one of the three principal officers, al- 
though in some jurisdictions the total is as low as 
four, and in others a Past Matron or Past Patron can 
act in the absence of the three principal officers, as in 
Minnesota and Michigan. 

In many jurisdictions auxiliary societies, being or- 
ganizations composed of sisters of the order, Avhose 



168 GRAND CHAPTER HISTORIES. 

objects are, generally, to add to the social features, 
and by entertainments, sewing, and other means to 
procure funds for charitable and other needs, nourish. 
They are sometimes called by the name of the chap- 
ter, e. g. "Queen Esther Auxiliary," and sometimes 
by other names, as "Areme Society," "Electa Social," 
or "Emera Club." They have often proved of great 
assistance in the field of work they have chosen, but 
like every effort toward the accomplishment of any 
object worth attaining, care and common sense are 
necessary in their formation and government, so that 
there may be no conflict or jealousies engendered by 
them. 

In recent years there has grown up in many chap- 
ters the practice of advancement in office, beginning 
with the Associate Conductress, and following up the 
line to Worthy Matron. In the earlier days of the 
order this did not obtain, and it would now seem that 
the order would be better served if it was abandoned, 
where it is the practice. It is very often the case that 
a sister may have the ability to fill the office, say, of 
Conductress, with honor to herself, and to the benefit 
of the chapter, who may be entirely lacking in those 
qualities that are needful for an efficient Matron. If 
this practice were not in vogue the members would 
feel at liberty to act solely as the best interests of the 
chapter seemed to require, and to select from any of 
the officers, or from the floor, the particular sister that 
is best fitted to discharge the duties of Matron or 
Associate Matron. It is not wise to spoil a good Con- 
ductress to make a poor Matron. 

It would have pleased the author to have presented 
the portraits of the many distinguished sisters and 
brothers that have by their zeal and labors, made 
names for themselves in the order, but their number is 
legion, and if he had undertaken to incorporate them 



GRAND CHAPTER HISTORIES. 169 

all herein it would have swelled the book and the cost 
of its production far beyond what could have been af- 
forded at the modest price at which he has undertaken 
to sell it, and he did not see how he could venture to 
make distinctions without running the serious risk of 
a charge of favoritism, so that he concluded to insert 
only those 1 of the three eminent brethren, Morris, 
Macoy, and Lamb, who have passed from this life, to- 
gether with the portrait of sister Pendleton, by many 
years, the oldest surviving Grand Matron, and that 
of the author. 

The following is a list of the grand chapters in the 
order of their seniority: 

Michigan, as Grand Lodge of Adoptive Masonry, 
October 30, 1867. 

New Jersey, July 18, 1870. 

New York, November 3, 1870. 

Mississippi, December 15, 1870. Ceased in 1877. 

California, May 9, 1873. 

Vermont, November 12, 1873. 

Indiana, May 6, 1874. 

Connecticut, August 11, 1874. 

Nebraska, June 22, 1875. 

Illinois, October 6, 1875. 

Missouri, October 13, 1875. 

Arkansas, October 2, 1876. 

Kansas, October 18, 1876. 

General Grand Chapter, November 16, 1876. 

Massachusetts, December 11, 1876. 

Minnesota, June 28, 1878. 

Iowa, July 30, 1878. 

Ontario, May 3, 1882. Ceased in 1883. 

Texas, May 5, 1884. 

Minnesota No, 2, May 12, 1884. Merged, 1894. 

Washington, June 11,-1888. 

South Dakota, July 11, 1889. 



170 GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 

Indian Territory, July 11, 1889. 
Ohio, July 24, 1889. 
Oregon, October 3, 1889. 
Montana, September 25, 1890. 
Wisconsin, February 19, 1891. 
New Hampshire, May 12, 1891. 
Colorado, June 7, 1892. 
Maine*, August 24, 1892. 
North Dakota, June 14, 1894. 
Pennsylvania, November 22, 1894. 
Khode Island, August 22, 1895. 
District of Columbia, April 30, 1896. 
"Wyoming, September 14, 1898. 
Maryland, December 23, 1898. 
Louisiana, October 4, 1900. 
Tennessee, October 18, 1900. 
Arizona, November 15, 1900. 

GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER, 

The preliminary steps leading to the organization of 
this body have been fully given in chapter II. The 
convention for its organization was held in the ma- 
sonic temple, Indianapolis, Indiana, November 15, 
1876, when the grand chapters of California, Illinois, 
Indiana, Missouri, and New Jersey were represented. 
James S. Nutt, Grand Patron of Indiana called the 
convention to order, and John M. Mayhew, of New 
Jersey, the senior Grand Patron present, was chosen 
President, and John P. Parson, of Missouri, Secre- 
tary. A committee of one from each jurisdiction, of 
which Willis D. Engle, of Indiana, was chairman, re- 
ported a form of constitution, which was adopted, and 
the General Grand Chapter organized. A committee 
to prepare a ritual was appointed, and the Most 
Worthy Grand Patron was authorized to issue dispen- 
sations to all subordinate chapters holding charters 
purporting to emanate from a Supreme Grand Chap- 



GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 171 

ter, upon their surrendering the same, without ex- 
pense. The meeting closed with a public installation 
of officers. The Most Worthy Grand Patron was 
mad© the executive head, and the powers and author- 
ity of the body were thus prescribed: 

ARTICLE III. 

Section 1. The General Grand Chapter shall pos- 
sess no other power than is expressly delegated to it. 
It can exercise no doubtful authority or power, by 
implication merely. All Eastern Star authority not 
hereby granted to it, is reserved to the grand chap- 
ters, subordinate chapters, and their members indi- 
vidually. 

Sec. 2. It shall have and maintain jurisdiction 
over all chapters established by itself in any section 
of any country where there is no grand chapter es- 
tablished, and have disciplinary power over such chap- 
ters until a grand chapter shall be legally organized 
and recognized by this General Grand Chapter, and 
no 1 longer. 

Sec. 3. It shall have power to decide all questions 
of Eastern Star law, usage and custom which may 
arise between any two or more grand chapters, or in 
any subordinate chapter under its own immediate jur- 
isdiction; and all that may be referred to it for its de- 
cision by any grand chapter, and its decision so made 
shall be regarded as the supreme tribunal of the East- 
ern Star in the last resort. 

Sec. 4. It shall be the judge of the qualifications 
of its own members. 

Sec. 5. It shall adopt and prescribe a uniform rit- 
ual of work, and formula for installation of its own 
officers, as well as the officers of grand and subor- 
dinate chapters. 

Sec. 6. All amendments, alterations or additions 
to the ritual that shall be promulgated by this General 
Grand Chapter, must be submitted in writing at a 
stated meeting, when, if approved by a majority of 
the members present, shall lie over until the next 
stated meeting, when, if adopted by a two^thirds vote, 
shall become a part of the same. 



172 



GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 



ARTICLE VII. 

Sec. 2. The General Grand Chapter may levy 
such contributions as in its judgment shall be re- 
quired, which shall always be uniform in proportion to 
membership, and which shall not exceed five cents 
per annum for each paying member. 

!N"o tax has ever been levied by the General Grand 
Chapter upon any grand chapters, except that the five 

grand chapters, which 
were represented at 
its organization were 
requested to advance 
to it two and one-half 
cents for each member 
of its subordinates, 
the same to be applied 
on their dues, which 
they cheerfully did, 
the same aggregating 
$148.43. 
At the second meeting, held in Chicago, Illinois, 
May 8-10, 1878, seven grand chapters were repre- 
sented, and Past Grand Matrons of Connecticut and 
New York were present as visitors. Five chapters 
had been organized, and five Macoy chapters had ex- 
changed their charters. 

The third meeting was also held in Chicago, Au- 
gust 20-21, 1880, eleven grand chapters were repre- 
sented, and visitors were present from fourteen states. 
Rob Morris, who was. present was made an honorary 
member, and his birthday, August 31, was made the 
festal day of the order. Eleven chapters had been 
organized, and one Macoy charter and two issued by 
the Grand Chapter of ISTew York to chapters in Mary- 
land and "Wyoming, exchanged. Fourteen chapters 
had been released to form two grand chapters. 

The fourth meeting was held in San Francisco, 




GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 173 

August 17-23, 1883, when twelve grand chapters 
were represented. Twenty-seven chapters had been 
organized, and two Macoy charters exchanged. Five 
chapters had been released to form a grand chapter. 
The withdrawal of the Grand Chapter of !New Jersey 
from the General Grand Chapter in October, 1880, 
and its return in October, 1881, were reported. A 
committee was appointed on revision of ritual. 

The fifth meeting was held in St. Louis, Missouri, 
September 23-25, 1886, ten grand chapters being rep- 
resented. Twenty-nine chapters had been organized, 
and one Macoy chapter reorganized. Thirteen chap- 
ters had been released to form a grand chapter. The 
Most Worthy Grand Patron reported that he had, in 
behalf of the General Grand Chapter, assumed juris- 
diction over Mississippi, the grand chapter of that 
state having ceased to exist; and that recognition had 
been withdrawn from the Grand Chapter of Minne- 
sota, on account of gross violations of law, and that a 
new grand chapter had been organized and recog- 
nized. This was a matter that provoked much contro 
versy, extending over ten years, and occupied the. at- 
tention of the General Grand Chapter at three of its 
meetings. The salient points of it are epitomized as 
follows: 

The address of the: Most Worthy Grand Patron, 
in 1886, was largely taken up with a statement of the 
troubles, and his action in the premises, which at- 
tempted the abolition of the old grand chapter, and 
the assumption of jurisdiction over the order in that 
state, and the subsequent organization of another 
grand chapter. The trouble doubtless had its origin 
in undue ambition for office and power, but its first 
official manifestation was in a criticism by the Grand 
Patron, in his address to the grand chapter in 1883, 
of the work as exemplified in Minneapolis Chapter 



174 GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 

Iso. 9, which resulted in a declaration by the grand 
chapter that the work was not an infraction of the rit- 
ual, which was the only action in the matter ever 
taken by the grand chapter. The following year the 
matter was presented by the Grand Matron, in her 
address, but before action was taken, and before' the 
election and other routine business had been disposed 
of, the grand chapter adjourned sine die. Then came 
an edict from the Grand Matron, dated March 30, 
1885, suspending all the officers and members of Min- 
neapolis Chapter from all the rights and privileges of 
the order until the next meeting of the grand chap- 
ter. The Grand Secretary being a member of No. 
9, on April 7, the Grand Matron issuied a notice re- 
lieving her of the duties of that office, and appoint- 
ing another sister to fill the vacancy. Following this 
came a call for a special meeting of the grand chapter, 
which was held May 13, and at which all the acts 
of the Grand Matron were approved, and a new corps 
of officers elected. At this stage, the Most "Worthy 
Grand Patron issued his edict, and, when the' matter 
was presented to the General Grand Chapter, it took 
action as follows: 

Resolved, that in his edict of withdrawal of recog- 
nition of the Grand Chapter of Minnesota, the Most 
"Worthy Grand Patron was justified by the exigencies 
of the case, and this General Grand Chapter confirms 
his action. 

Resolved, that the Most Worthy Grand Patron be 
authorized to call a convention of all the chapters in 
Minnesota, claiming to work under the authority of 
both the so-called grand chapters of the state, and that 
he, in person or by deputy, proceed to that convention 
and organize a new grand chapter, consisting of all the 
chapters willing to become members of this new grand 
chapter, and that no other body but the one thus or- 
ganized be recognized by this General Grand Chapter. 

The newly elected Most Worthy Grand Patron is- 



GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 175 

sued a call as directed, but, before the time fixed for 
the meeting, lie cancelled the same, and subsequently 
issued an edict requiring all chapters to recognize the 
original grand chapter, and restoring recognition to 
the same as a constituent part of the General Grand 
Chapter. At the meeting of the General Grand 
Chapter in 1889, this action was confirmed, and all 
chapters in the state were ordered to make report and 
pay dues to said grand chapter under penalty of for- 
feiture of all rights, and the grand chapter was or- 
dered to receive such chapters as made reports and 
paid dues, into full membership, under penalty of a 
withdrawal of recognition of the grand chapter. The 
grand chapter failing to comply with the conditions, 
recognition was withdrawn, April 14, 1891, and at 
the meeting of the General Grand Chapter in 1892, 
what was known as Grand Chapter ISTo. 2, was recog- 
nized as the "own and only 77 Grand Chapter of Min- 
nesota, and by the subsequent conservative action of 
the leading members of the order in both divisions, a 
consolidation of all the bodies under one head, and 
the recognition thereby of all chapters and past grand 
officers, was effected May 10, 1894, since which time 
peace and harmony have prevailed. 

Among those present at the St. Louis meeting was 
brother Morris, who read a poem as follows. 

ANGELIC VISITORS. 

[Composed for the triennial assembly of the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, St. 
Louis, Mo., September, 1886, and fraternaly in- 
scribed to Mrs. A. C. S. Engle, by Kob Morris, Poet 
Laureate.] 

If to our world dear lest ones would descend 

If Euth and Martha would in kindness bend, 

With Esther and Electa from the sky 

And sanctify our harmony and joy, 
I think while in these roseate bonds we meet, 
Our happiness this morning were complete. 



176 GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 

So hard is life, so anxious and unsure, 
So much there is to combat and endure, 
We need a greater than an earthly hope, 
To buoy our dull, despondent spirits up ; 
Oh God, Thou fountain of all-perfect love, 
Send messengers of comfort from above. 

So shall this conclave of the Eastern Star, 

Be like the gatherings where the angels are; 

So shall one purpose occupy each heart 

And give full consolation ere we part ; 
While every evil thought shall fade away 
And naught remain but one perpetual day. 

It was ordered that 

The jewels of a grand chapter be the emblems 
within a star or a triangle, Avithin a pentagon; and 
that the jewels of the General Grand Chapter be the 
emblems within a star or a triangle, within a circle. 

By the adoption of the revised ritual, in 1889, the 
jewels of the General Grand Chapter were made the 
jewels of a grand chapter within a circle. 

The sixth meeting was at Indianapolis, September 
25-27, 1889. Twelve grand chapters were repre- 
sented, including two delegations from Minnesota; 
and one subordinate chapter. Twenty-eight chapters 
had been organized, and twenty-seven had been re- 
leased to organize four grand chapters. The Grand 
Chapter of Ontario having become dormant, the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter assumed jurisdiction over its ter- 
ritory, August 8, 1889. New Jersey was reported as 
having again withdrawn from the General Grand 
Chapter, in which condition it still remains. The 
death of Rob Morris having occurred July 31, 1888, 
and that of William M. Black, who had been Worthy 
Grand Sentinel from the organization of the: General 
Grand Chapter, August 9, 1887, suitable action was 
taken relative thereto. The Most Worthy Grand 
Matron was made the executive head of the body, the 
business of granting charters and organizing chapters 




ENGLE SIGNET. 



GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 1 / 7 

still remaining in the hands of the Most Worthy 
Grand Patron. The committee on revision of ritual 
reported, and its report was adopted, giving the order 
the ritual as it now is. 

The seventh meeting was held in Columbus, Ohio, 
September 15-17, 1892, sixteen grand chapters and 
two subordinate chapters being represented. Fifty- 
seven chapters had been organized, while fifty-four 
chapters under its jurisdiction had been released to 
organize six grand chapters. 

The eighth meeting was in Boston, Massachusetts, 
August 29-30, 1895, when twenty-four grand chap- 
ters and nine subordinate chapters were represented. 
Fifty-eight chapters had been organized, while eigh- 
teen had been released to organize two grand chap- 
ters. The Eight Worthy Grand Secretary reported 
having maintained a very successful Eastern Star cor- 
ner at the World's Fair, which did much to bring the 
order to the attention of masons and their relatives. 
The Worthy Grand Conductress and Worthy Grand 
Associate Conductress were made elective officers, 
they having theretofore been appointive. 

The ninth meeting was in Washington, District of 
Columbia, September 27-30, 1898, when twenty-six 
grand chapters were represented, besides representa- 
tives of the grand chapters of Connecticut, New Jer- 
sey, and New York, not members of the body, and a 
committee was appointed to confer with them, and 
subsequently it submitted a report opening up the 
way for their affiliation with the General Grand Chap- 
ter. Sixty-five chapters had been organized, and 
eleven chapters released to form two grand chapters. 
A memorial was presented from the Grand Chapter 
of Texas asking for the publication of the esoteric 
work in a separate volume, and that a monitor, con- 
taining the balance of the work, be published and sold 



178 GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 

to members generally, and a, committee was appointed 
to report details for carrying out the suggestion. 

Being the only person that has been a member of 
the General Grand Chapter from its organization who 
has attended all of its meetings, and having had an 
intimate knowledge of its workings., I am, perhaps, as 
well able as anyone to speak of its great success, from 
many points of view. Consisting, as the order did 
at the time of its organization, of but thirteen grand 
chapters (two of which had been organized the pre- 
vious month), with a membership of possibly thirteen 
thousand, in two hundred and seventy-five' chapters, 
how great is the contrast with its present nourishing 
condition, with its thirty-six grand bodies, nearly 
thirty-two hundred chapters, and upwards of two hun- 
dred thousand members; and increasing at the rate of 
two hundred and sixty chapters, and over twenty 
thousand members per annum. Truly, the General 
Grand Chapter has, by the test of its. fruits, proven 
the wisdom of its projectors, and has placed the order 
on a basis of permanency, harmony, and prosperity 
that could not otherwise have been attained. But any 
sketch would be incomplete that did not mention the 
social reunions that its meetings afford, when sisters 
and brothers from one end of the land to the' other 
clasp the cordial hand of friendship. The gatherings 
have been made most pleasant by the hospitalities that 
have been extended to its members by the chapters 
where its meetings have been held, whether they have 
been in the beautiful summer land of California, un- 
der the eaves of Faneuil hall, or within the shadow 
of the nation's capitol. 

Financially the General Grand Chapter has been 
a success, never having levied any tax upon the grand 
chapters other than the small contributions made by 
the grand chapters that organized it, to pay its initial 



GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 179 

expenses. Up to 1898, the date of the last printed 
report, the receipts had been approximately: For 
charters, $4,977; dues, $8,050; merchandise, $37,200. 
Total, $50,227. Disbursement®, expenses, $27,512 
merchandise, $17,200. Balance, cash and credits, 
$5,500. 

Decisions. — A person who has lost an arm can not 
be received into our order. 1886. / 

The rituals of the Queen of the South and Ama- 
ranth degree can not be used in any chapter in a juris- 
diction under the General Grand Chapter. 1895. 

All printed matter between the covers of the ritual 
shall be considered as law, and binding upon all grand 
chapters. 1898. 

The prayers in the ritual are as much a part of the 
regular work as the lectures, and they may not be 
changed in the opening or closing ceremonies, any 
more than in the initiation or installation ceremonies. 
1895. 

M. W. G. Matron.— 1876, Elizabeth Butler, Illi- 
nois; 1878, Elmira Foley, Missouri; 1880, L. J. Pit- 
kin, Illinois; 1883, Jennie E. Mathews, Iowa; 1886, 
Mary A. Flint, California; 1889, Nettie Hansford, 
Indiana; 1892, Mary C. Sneddon, Kansas; 1895, 
Mary E. Partridge, California; 1898, Hattie E. 
Ewing, Massachusetts* 

M. W. G. Patron.— 1876, John D. Vincil, Mis- 
souri; 1878, *Thos. M. Lamb, Massachusetts; 1880, 
Willis Brown, Kansas; 1883, *E. C. Gaskill, Califor- 
nia; 1886, J. S. Conover, Michigan; 1889, Benj. 
Lynds, Missouri; 1892, Jas. P. Donnell, Arkansas; 
1895, H. H. Hinds, Michigan; 1898, K A. Gear- 
hart, Minnesota. 

E. W. G. Secretary.— 1876-1889, Willis D. Engle, 
Indiana; 1889-1900, Lorraine J. Pitkin, Illinois. 

^Deceased, 



180 ARIZONA— ARKANSAS. 

ARIZONA. 

The first chapter chartered by the General Grand 
Chapter was Golden Kule, at Preseott, February 6, 
1882, and subsequently eleven other chapters were 
organized, there being eight live chapters at the time 
of the organization of the grand chapter, November 
15, 1900, the convention held at Phoenix, assembling 
in the reception room of the Commercial hotel, five 
chapters being represented. The members indulged 
in a banquet, in connection with the other masonic 
grand bodies, in the evening, and completed the or- 
ganization by the installation of officers on the follow- 
ing day. 

Grand Matron, Annie L. Tilton; Grand Patron, 
George E. Kohler; Grand Secretary, Lizzie D. 
Armstrong. 

ARKANSAS. 

The first chapter in this state was Enola "No. 1,. 
organized at Mt. Vernon, in July, 1870. The grand 
chapter was organized October 2, 1876, the conven- 
tion assembling on the call of W. B. Massey; and 
held its first annual meeting at Searcy, November 8,. 
following, six chapters being represented. As the 
proceedings of this body for its earlier meetings have 
not been printed, particulars that would be of inter- 
est and valuable, are not accessable, while its earlier 
printed proceedings are lacking in statistics. At the 
second meeting, in 1877, but four chapters were rep- 
resented; Past Matrons, Past Patrons, and Past Asso- 
ciate Matrons, were made members of the grand 
chapter for one year after their term of office had 
expired; the Grand Matron was made the: executive 
head of the grand chapter; dues were fixed at 10 
cents per capita, but were raised to twenty cents in 
1882, and to twenty-five cents in 1886. "A scarf 
of five colors, three inches wide, with a rosette on 



ARKANSAS. 181 

the shoulder, the breast, and at the crossing, to be 
worn from the right shoulder to the left side/ 7 was 
adopted as the distinctive regalia of the order. At the 
third meeting there were but four chapters repre- 
sented. 

In 1879 a Grand Orator was elected whose duty it 
was to deliver an address at the installation of the 
grand officers at each annual communication, on the 
objects of the order. 

In 1880 allegiance was acknowledged to the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter, and its ritual adopted; a com- 
mittee was appointed to visit the: grand lodge and 
lay the claims of the order before it, and ask it to 
recognize the order; and an edict was issued forbid- 
ding any member of the order conferring the degrees 
in any other way than in the manner prescribed by 
the constitution. 

In 1886 the state was divided into eighteen dis- 
tricts, and a Deputy Grand Matron and a Deputy 
Grand Patron appointed for each, and in 1891, dis- 
trict schools of instruction were inaugurated. The 
number of districts was reduced to ten, in 1899. 

In 1889 a brother was suspended by the grand 
chapter for conferring the degrees in an illegal man- 
ner. 

In 1892, the grand chapter, by special invitation, 
attended the dedication of the masonic temple, in 
Little Rock. 

In 1898 the use of the grand lodge hall was, by 
resolution of the grand lodge, tendered to the grand 
chapter at such times as the grand lodge does not re- 
quire it. 

There have been two hundred and fifty-six chap- 
ters organized in this state, ninety-one of which made 
returns in 1900. 

Decisions. — The voting sign of the order is raising 
the right hand. 



182 CALIFORNIA. 

Grand Matron.— 1876, Kiddy A. Neal; 1877, Ann 
E. Beavers; 1878, Kiddy A. Neal; 1879, Mary E. 
McCain; 1880, K M. Maddox (Nelson); 1881-1882, 
Leila B. McBride; 1883-1886, S. Alice Cox; 1887, 
Hettie E. Penn; 1888-1890, Bailie E. Reynolds (Con- 
ner); 1891-1892, Ida M. Beloate; 1893-1894, Mattie 
C. DeVaugban; 1895-1896, Jennie B. Hopkins; 
1897, Alma C. Strong; 1898, Frances M. Stark; 
1899, Jane A. Dixon; 1900, Julia M. Gill. 

Grand Patron.— 1876, J. M. Mallett; 1877, K K. 
Bobbins; 1878, Kev. G. A. Dannelly; 1879, *W. B. 
Massey; 1880, K J. Cbance; 1881-1885, Rev. G. A. 
Dannelly; 1886-1887, * James M. Harkey; 1888- 
1889, J. R. Donnell; 1890, J. E. Hopkins; 1891, 
•Joihn G. Holland; 1892-1893, Rev. E, L. Massey; 
1894, J. E. Hopkins; 1895-1896, *K. R. Lewis; 1897, 
George Tbooiburg; 1898, George W. DeVaugban; 
1899, Dr. J. B. Ellis; 1900, M. T. Briseo. 

Grand Secretary.— 1876-1880, B. B. Bradley; 
1881-1885, *W. B. Massey; 1886-1890, J. C. Higgs; 
1891-1896, Hettie E. Penn; 1897-1900, Jennie B. 
Hopkins. 

CALIFOENIA. 

The degree of tbe Eastern Star was first conferred 
in this State, in San Francisco, in April, 1860. Tbe 
first chapter organized was Golden Gate !No. 1, San 
Francisco, May 10, 1869. Tbe grand chapter was 
organized in San Francisco, April 9, 1873, by repre- 
sentatives of seven of the ten chapters then organi- 
ized in the state. Of these ten chapters, six still sur- 
vive. A constitution was adopted which did not pro- 
vide for grand officers at the points of the star, but 
these were added in October, 1873. In addition to 
the three principal officers, and Past Matrons and 
Past Patrons, each chapter was given an additional 
representative for each twenty-five members, and one 

*Deceased. 



CALIFORNIA. 



183 



for each fraction of twenty-five, more than seven- 
teen, but the additional representation was abolished 
in 1875. The Grand Patron was made the presiding 
officer, and executive head of the grand chapter, and 
so continues, this being the only grand chapter in 
which the Grand Patron is the executive. On this 
subject, a committee in 1886 said: 

The labor of presiding over the deliberations of the 
grand chapter for several days in succession is very 
onerous, and can better be endured by a brother than 
a sister, as a general proposition, admitting the quali- 
fication of each, mentally, are alike. * * * Not- 
withstanding the Grand Matron may preside in most, 
or even in all other grand jurisdictions. The Grand 
Chapter of California has not indulged very largely 
in the practice of going to other jurisdictions to learn 
how to conduct her own affairs. 

At the meeting for organization a committee was 
appointed to prepare a ritual, which was adopted 
and publ i shed. 

(CaliforniaRitual.) ^^^^S^ 

In 1875 a com- 
mittee was ap- 
pointed "to revise 
thei ritual, and ab- 
breviate the cere- 
monies of initiation 
so far as it can be 
done without im- 
pairing the sense 
or value of the 
same, and that the responses for the points found in 
the New York ritual (Adoptive Rite Revised) be 
adopted by subordinate chapters.' 7 

This committee reported in 1877, the report being 
adopted, and the ritual published. (California Re- 
vised.) 




184 CALIFORNIA. 

The grand chapter was represented at the organi- 
zation of the General Grand Chapter, but in 1877 it 
was 

Resolved, that the Grand Chapter of California 
will not recognize any authority in the General Grand 
Chapter until it puts forth the form of ritual that it 
may adopt, and the Grand Chapter of California have 
time for the examination thereof, and that the mem- 
bers of the General Grand Chapter who are members 
of this grand chapter are not- to feel themselves at 
liberty to pledge this grand chapter in any respect. 

It was also ruled 

That it would be in order for our grand chapter 
to grant a dispensation for the formation of a chap- 
ter in any adjacent state, or territory where there is 
no grand chapter. 

In 1878 "All resolutions, motions, and orders 

passed by this grand chapter relating to 1 the adoption 

of ritual, and the form thereof to be used in this 

jurisdiction," were rescinded, and the General Grand 

•Chapter ritual adopted. 

In 1873 "a" pass-word system" was adopted, and 
continued in force until 1878. 

In 1882 the state was divided into districts with a 
Deputy Grand Matron for each, and this was con- 
tinued until 1898. The printed proceedings for all 
these years contain specific and interesting reports 
from the district deputies, giving information in re- 
gard to the condition of each chapter. In 1898 the 
operation of the law was suspended for a year, and a. 
system of schools of instruction under the direction 
of the Grand Matron was substituted, and was so 
successful that it was continued in 1899. Concern- 
ing tihem the Grand Patron said: 

I hold that the visits of our Worthy Grand Matron 
to the centers of population of each district and the 
schools of instruction held there by her have been 



CALIFORNIA. 185 

a grand success, and that at no time in the history of 
our existence has the interpretation of our work 
has been so uniform and so much unity of purpose 
exhibited throughout the jurisdiction. 

A Grand Chapter of Sorrow was held in 1880, 
when Abbie E. Wood (Krebs) delivered a memorial 
address; and in 1888 a like service was held by the 
chapters of San Francisco in memory of Rob Morris, 
the grand chapter attending the same, and the pro^ 
gram being included in the printed proceedings. 

The grand chapter most royally entertained the 
General Grand Chapter in 1883, at an expense of 
$1,465.68. 

At the request of some of the chapters in Nevada 
working under charters from the General Grand 
Chapter, they were transferred to the jurisdiction of 
California, the population of Nevada being so sparse 
that there seemed no probability of a grand chapter 
being organized in that State. 

The following was adopted in 1888: 

Resolved, that while we recognize the lamented 
Rob Morris as the author and founder of the order, 
we recognize brother Robert Macoy as the master 
builder, who systematized the work of the order, and 
through whose instrumentality the order has as- 
sumed its; present grand proportions; and that we are 
proud to hail brother Macoy as the Patriarch of the 
order, and hope that his useful life may be spared 
many years to adorn and dignify the Order of the 
Eastern Star. 

In the matter of other degrees the grand chapter 

Resolved, that it is the sense of this grand chapter 
that it is not conducive to the upbuilding of our order, 
and opposed to the well established rules, regulations, 
and edicts of this fraternity, that any of the so-called 
side degrees not prescribed by the ritual of our order, 
be conferred by our chapters as such, at any time, or 
in the chapter room during the evenings of our meet- 



J 



186 CALIFORNIA. 

ings, or under the auspices or countenance of our fra- 
ternity, but that it is the sense of this chapter that all 
entertainments of an exclusively social nature be re- 
served for a time subsequent to the close of the chap- 
ters, to the end that matters of a fraternal nature be 
not rendered secondary to social festivities. 

In 1898 the Grand Patron issued a warning to 
members of the order against recognizing the Ama- 
ranth degree, as connected with the order, in which 
he said : 

Robert Maeoy wrote the degree of the Queen of 
the South, and the Amaranth, and conferred the 
same on many persons, during his. lifetime, but said 
Maeoy was not a member of an Eastern Star chapter 
for several years before his death, nor was he a mem- 
ber when he wrote this degree. * * The Maeoy 
ritual can be purchased by any one desiring it at any 
of the large book stores; and is used exclusively by 
the colored chapters, they working all the degrees as 
written by Maeoy. 

The Grand Patron was in error; brother Maeoy 
was, at the time of his death, a member of "Wyona 
Chapter Eo. 77, of Brooklyn, and the funeral cere- 
monies of the order were conducted by that chap- 
ter at his burial. The Queen of the; South was;, like 
the Eastern Star, adapted by brother Morris from 
a form that had been in use before his day, and, as 
with the Eastern Star, brother Maeoy revised the 
Morris form of conferring it, but his ritual was first 
published in 1876, when he was certainly an active 
member of the order. 

In reporting upon this, the: committee to which was 
referred that portion of the Grand Patron's address 
said: 

The Court of the Amaranth may be, and no doubt 
is, a good thing of itself, and worthy of countenance 
when permitted to 1 stand alone on its merits; and we 
see no harm in making a prerequisite to joining it, 



CALIFORNIA. 187 

that the applicant be a member in good standing in 
the Order of the Eastern Star. * " Any order of 
a social nature which requires advertising and bols- 
tering up by building on the foundation and strength 
of another order of known beauty and merit, should 
be viewed with suspicion, and held at arm's length. 
Let it flourish or decline upon its own merits alone, 
unaided by borrowing from, or preying upon kindred 
orders, and then only, will it free itself from unkind 
remarks or well deserved censure. 

A committee on masonic home was appointed to 
co-operate with the grand lodge, and the grand chap- 
ter pledged $500 toward the object. Owing to finan- 
cial depression, and the suspension of the bank in 
which some $1,100 of the fund were deposited, the 
movement languished, but recently the borne has 
been acquired, and the interest of the order in it re- 
vived, about $2,500 being contributed toward it, by 
the order in 1898, and in 1899 the committee re- 
ported that a total of $6,388.45 had been received, 
and that no less than $6,000 was added to the build- 
ing fund by the efforts of members of the Eastern 
Star, the amounts contributed through, the grand 
chapter being toward the furnishing of the building. 

The bills presented for the expenses of the trial of 
a Matron aggregating $886.95, the grand chapter 
ordered that 

Hereafter, when the members of a chapter desire to 
prefer charges against the Worthy Patron or Worthy 
Matron, they shall deposit with the Grand Patron or 
Grand Matron a sufficient sum to cover the expense? 
of a trial, before the commission is appointed. 

In 1899 a proposition to amend the constitution so 
as to make the Grand Matron the executive head of 
the grand chapter, failing to receive five-sixths of the 
votes cast, was laid over for a year. By a unanimous 
vote the following proviso was added to the section of 



188 CALIFORNIA. 

tii© constitution relative to the membership of the 
grand chapter: 

There is hereby created the title of Venerable Past 
Grand Patron, with all the rights and privileges of 
membership, to be conferred upon our beloved 
brother William S. Moses, of Golden Gate Chapter 
ISTo. 1, in view of the fact that he was the first 
Deputy Grand Patron, and as such organized the first 
chapters in this state. 

The following memorial prepared by H. Augusta 
Hobe is of such general interest as to justify its in- 
sertion here: 

Sister Maria Anderson was bom February 3, 1821. 
She received the degrees of the- order of the Eastern 
Star by communication April 23, 1869. At that 
time she was the wife of brother James Everard, an 
actor by profession. As an actress sister Everard 
had acquired an education in early life which quali- 
fied her to become an efficient instructor in the new 
order, and on account of her public experience she 
was considered to be the better fitted than any other 
sister to make the enterprise a success, and yet she 
had no easy task. " Separated by thousands of miles 
from any other chapter of the order, without the ad- 
vice or assistance of any one capable of instructing 
the members in the work or ceremonies of a chapter; 
surrounded by influences which, if not positively an- 
tagonistic, were neverthelesD injurious to the prosper- 
ity of the order, it required a hard struggle against 
difficulties: and opposition" to manipulate the crude 
material into proper form; but sister Everard proved 
to be an able assistant to the devoted little band of 
zealous workers, who had raised our standard colors 
on this far off western shore, and their united labor 
of love reached its fruition on the 23d day of Au- 
gust, 1869, when the first Eastern Star chapter was 
opened in regular form for the transaction of legiti- 
mate business, with sister Everard in the chair. 
Previous to this date fifty-eight had received the de- 
gree by communication. In less than four months 
afterward thirty-five members were regularly initiated. 



CALIFORNIA. 189 

December 27, IS 69, sister Everard had the honor 
of being first elected and installed Worthy Ma- 
tron in this state. At the close of her year's serv- 
ice, in December, 1870, she had received one hun- 
dred and twenty petitions, and initiated one hundred 
and three members; ten others came into the chapter 
later on, making a record unsurpassed in the annals 
of the order in California. When she retired from 
office she received the collar and jewel of a Past 
Worthy Matron and also a handsome case of silver, 
but she cherished most, as a precious memento of the 
past, the practical proof that she was loved and hon- 
ored by the members of her beloved chapter, for 
when death invaded her happy home in June, 1871, 
and she was left without kindred, alone in her wid- 
owhood, the chapter members were called together 
to show their sympathy for her bereavement. The 
Worthy Patron escorted the sisters in a body from 
their chapter hall on Post street to the masonic tem- 
ple, where seats had been reserved for them, which 
was at that time a great innovation. At the masonic 
cemetery, when Mount Moriah Lodge No. 44, E. & 
A. M., had finished the sad funeral rites for their 
Master, brother James Everard, they stepped aside, 
and the sisters of the Order of the Eastern Star gath- 
ered around the weeping widow with kind words of 
love and tenderness, and while quietly cover- 
ing the mound which contained the mortal 
remains of her loved one with their floral of- 
ferings, "instilled hope into her heart until she looked 
beyond the river and saw the glory of the farther 
shore." March 10, 1872, sister Everard was duly in- 
stalled Worthy Matron of Alameda Chapter No. 7, 
and from her saddened home she continued to> work 
for the interests of the order. Some time after she 
married L. C. Anderson, a brother actor and an old- 
time friend of her late husband. April 7, 1873, when 
the delegates from the several chapters in this state 
met to organize a grand chapter, sister Anderson re- 
ceived her reward as the pioneer sister worker in the 
order by being elected and installed the first Worthy 
Grand Matron of California. She occupied her seat 
of honor at the first annual communication. The 
body then represented nine subordinate chapters, and 



190 CALIFORNIA. 

a membership of over five hundred, as a. result of the 
nucleus formed by fourteen members April 8, 1869. 

The Grand Secretary is paid annually $900, the 
Assistant Secretary $300, and $250 is paid for of- 
fice rent. The retiring, and oftentimes the incoming 
grand officers are presented tokens of regard and af- 
fection by their friends. 

The grand chapter in 1899 was attended by sixteen 
grand officers, fifty-one past grand officers, one hun- 
dred and eighty-five representatives of chapters, 
and two hundred and fourteen Past Matrons and 
Past Patrons, a total of four hundred and sixty-six. 
The receipts, general fund, including balance were 
$9,037.05, and the total balance of cash on hand was 
$3,939.95. Home fund, receipts $2,635.55; balance 
$826.55. 

Decisions. — The floral work may be given in pub- 
lic. 1891. 

Being neither business nor work of the order the 
floral work should not be given in open , chapter. 
1896. 

A brother's suspension or expulsion from his lodge 
does not affect his membership in a chapter. 1875 and 
1881. 

A Past Matron from another state affiliating with 
a chapter of this state, is entitled to her rank as past 
officer, and to membership in the grand chapter. 
1889. 

It is not in keeping with the. dignity of this grand 
chapter to pass upon the merits or demerits of any 
work or production, nor to approve or disapprove the 
same. 1896. 

A by-law providing that "no applicant for charity 
shall be relieved out of the funds of the chapter ex- 
cept females, and orphan children in some way con- 
nected with freemasonry," is void, because it is in 
direct conflict with the foundation principles of the 
order. 1898. 

A chapter cannot appear in public processions, cel- 
ebrations, festivities, or fairs of any kind, without a 



CALIFORNIA. 191 

special dispensation from the Grand Matron, except 
to attend the funeral of a member of the order. 
1898. 

The chapter shall determine who among the qual- 
ified sisters and brothers shall act as installing officer. 
1899. 

Grand Matron. — 1873, '•Maria Anderson; 1873, 
Mary E. Gillespie; 1874, ^Henrietta Whitcher; 1875, 
Emily Rolfe; 1876, Ada A. Libbey ; 1877, * Annie E. 
Douglas; 1878, Fena W. Ford; 1879, Nellie M. 
Owens; 1880, S. Jennie Mann; 1881, Frances E. 
Ryder; 1882-1883, Mary A. Flint; 1884, Mary J. 
Young; 1885, A. E. Wood (Krebs); 1886, Mary B. 
Moore; 1887, G. S. Freeman; 1888, Mary E. Par- 
tridge; 1889, Annie E. Briggs; 1890, Mary J. Par- 
ker; 1891, Mattie A. Farnum; 1892, ^Georgia A. 
Matfield; 1893, Emma Hapgood; 1894, Augusta D. 
Wilson; 1895, Carrie A. Peaslee; 1896, Ella T. Hall; 
1897, Eva M. Porter; 1898, Maria A: Pierce; 1899, 
Fannie T. McCowen; 1900, Maud E. Bowes. 

Grand Patron. — 1873-1874, George J. Hobe; 
1875, *J. E. Whitcher; 1876, Jerome Spalding; 
1877, *R. C. Gaskill; 1878, I. J. Rolfe; 1879, 
^Charles L. Thomas; 1880, * Jerome Banks; 1881, 
Edward S. West; 1882, Rev. A. F. Hitchcock; 1883, 
A. C. Hartley; 1884, F. W. G. Moebus; 1885, *E. 
W. Roberts; 1886, John K Young; 1887, John H. 
Gray; 1888, Thomas Flint; 1889, Jesse B. Fuller; 
1890, Fred L. Button; 1891, C. C. Bush; 1892, J. 
F. Boiler; 1893, A. B. Lemmon; 1894, Thomas Flint, 
Jr.; 1895, Joseph B. Merritt; 1896, James R. Tap- 
scott; 1897, Harrison D. Rowe; 1898, J. M. Law- 
rence, M. D.; 1899, George L. Darling; 1900, Ernest 
W. Oonant. 

Grand Secretary. — 1873, ^"Henrietta Whitcher; 
1874, Anna M. Elliott; 1875-1881, Abbie E. Wood 
(Krebs); 1882-1900, Kate J. Willats. 

*Deceased. 



192 



COLORADO. 



COLORADO. 

Chapters were chartered by brother Maooy, at 
Black Hawk and Silver Cliff, about 1877, but neither 
of them survived. The first chapter chartered by the 
General Grand Chapter was Trinidad ~No. 1, at Trin- 
idad, January 7, 1881. The convention to organize 
the grand chapter was called by Pomona !Nb. 11, of 
Colorado Springs, and met at Colorado Springs, June 
6, 1892, when ten of the thirteen chapters in the 
state were represented by thirty-four representatives 
and past officers. Instead of completing the work of 
organization in one day, as most of such conventions 
have done, it continued in session three days, but 
those who have visited Colorado Springs, and know 
of the sights that may be seen there, need not be told 
the reason. The chapter at Leadville presented the 
grand chapter fifty dollars toward paying the: ex- 
penses of organization; Past Matrons and Past 
Patrons were made permanent members of the grand 
chapter, and the Grand Matron its executive head; 
per capita dues were fixed at twenty-five cents per 
annum. 

The floral work was rendered before the grand 
chapter for the first time in 1893. The printed se^ 

cret work was recalled in 
1895, and it was ordered 
that it be communicated 
orally. The retiring 
Grand Matron in 1894 
was presented a diamond 
ring, and it was ordered 
that from th ensef orward 
the retiring Grand Ma- 
tronshould be presented 
a Past Grand Matron's jewel by the grand chapter, at 
an expense of twenty-five dollars. The word "session" 




COLORADO. 193 

was adopted to designate the meetings of botli grand 
and subordinate chapters. 

In 1897, Union Lodge No. 7 extended greetings to 
the two chapters in Denver, as follows : 

Resolved, that these relatives of our masonic 
brothers are deserving of the fraternal regard, en- 
dorsement, and sympathy of this lodge, and that the 
same is hereby extended to them, with our good will 
and earnest desire for their welfare and prosperity, 

In 1900 the Grand Matron in her address said: 

Whereas the order of the Eastern Star has become 
well established in Colorado, and as one of the prin- 
cipal objects of the order is charity, I would suggest 
that a special committee be appointed by the incom- 
ing Grand Matron, looking to the formation of some 
plan whereby this grand chapter or the subordinate 
chapters in connection with the masonic brotherhood, 
might accumulate a fund for the organization of a 
masonic home for indigent master masons, their wid- 
ows, orphans, and Eastern Star members. And as 
our ritual teaches, "the order exists for the purpose 
of giving practical effect to one of the beneficent pur- 
poses of freemasonry, which is to provide for the 
welfare of the wives, daughters, and widows of mas- 
ter masons," now let us show "that woman's heart 
beats responsive to the same inspiration that prompts 
man to noble deeds!" During the past year I have 
seen the need of a home or some temporary shelter 
for those who were worthy and who had a right to 
look to us for assistance, and it seems to me quite ap- 
propriate that this grand chapter should at this time 
take some action in the matter. 

This recommendation was approved by the grand 
chapter, but proceedings do not show the appoint- 
ment of the committee. 

The total number of chapters chartered in the 
state is forty-eight, of which four have surrendered 
their charters, while the forty-four others are actively 
at work. 

13 



194 CONNECTICUT. 

Decisions. — The Worthy Patron of a chapter must 
be an affiliated master mason. 1894. 

The word ritual can only be construed to mean 
the opening, closing, initiation, and funeral ceremo^ 
nies. 1896. 

The floral work contains no secret work, but is in 
the nature of an entertainment. 1897. 

A member of a defunct chapter can not visit a 
chapter. 1899. 

Grand Matron.— 1892-1893, Carrie Beef; 1894, 
Eva J. Aldrich; 1895, Mary K Potter; 1896, Mary 
E. Peirce; 1897, Mary L. Carr; 1898, Lizzie B. 
Shreyer; 1899, Mary Barry; 1900, Sarah E. Calvert. 

Grand Patron.— 1892-1893, *Henry D. Hathaway; 
1894, Calvin E. Beed; 1895, Jethro C. Sanford; 1896, 
George D. Greenfield; 1897, D. B. Callaway; 1898, 
Newton D. Owens; 1899, L. D. Crain; 1900, James 
B. Sherman. 

Grand Secretary.— 1892-1900, Eliza S. Cohen. 

CONNECTICUT. 

The first chapter organized was Orient, Bridgeport, 
April 22, 1869. The convention to organize the 
grand chapter was called by Chauncey M. Hatch, who 
had served as deputy for brother Maeoy, and who had 
been the active agent in the organization of all the 
chapters in the: state, and met in New Haven, August 
11, 1874, when eleven of the twelve chapters were 
represented. The Grand Patron was made the execu- 
tive head of the grand chapter, but this was changed 
in 1876, by placing the authority in the hands of the 
Grand Matron. Grand chapter dues were fixed at 
fifty cents for each member admitted during the year, 
with no per capita dues, but in 1878 dues were levied 
of two and one-naif cents per capita, which was in- 
creased in 1880 to five cents, and to ten cents in 1899. 

In 1878 Bob Morris's birthday was "set apart as 

-^Deceased. 



CONNECTICUT. 195 

a day of recreation, and social greetings "by the mem- 
bers of -the order in this state/' and, commencing in 
1886, an annual picnic of all the chapters has been 
held, usually at some convenient seaside resort. 

In 1889 the chapter of sorrow by Addie C. S. En- 
gle was adopted, the: committee reporting that "after 
careful examination we found nothing we would wish 
erased, and could think of nothing we could add 
to improve it." 

In 1897 the Grand Matron made an appeal for the 
erection of a monument to the first Grand Patron, 
Chauncey M. Hatch, in response to which the chap- 
ters contributed $238.10, and the monument was 
erected at a cost of $223.30, the balance being turned 
into the masonic home fund. The monument was 
unveiled with appropriate ceremonies, under the di- 
rection of the Grand Matron, September 1, 1898. 

In 1876 the grand chapter decided that " the present 
condition of our finances is such that we should be un- 
able to bear our proportion of the legitimate expense 
attendant upon the formation of a supreme grand 
chapter," and there the matter rested until 1897, 
when a committee was appointed to visit the; General 
Grand Chapter, in 1898, which made its report in 
1899, recommending affiliation therewith, but the 
matter was at that time indefinitely postponed, but 
was taken up in 1900, and the recommendation of the 
committee concurred in. 

In the matter of ritual, in October, 1874, "A com- 
mittee on uniformity of work was appointed to pre- 
pare a system of work and ritual," which reported 
at a special session, held February 1, 1875, the ritual 
as ordinarily practiced (Adoptive Rite), with some 
additions taken from the ancient ritual (Mosaic), 
which was adopted, and is known as the Connecticut 
Addenda. Excelsior Chapter, of New Haven also 



196 CONNECTICUT. 

exemplified portions of the dramatized work (Mosaic), 
and it was ordered that "chapters in this jurisdiction 
are permitted to dramatize such portions of the work 
as they may choose, provided the same be in accord- 
ance with the text and ceremonies as exemplified at 
this time," and Short Specimen Dramas were printed 
by the grand chapter for the use of chapters desiring 
to avail themselves of the permission. 

In her address in 1876 the Grand Matron said: 

In the brief time that the chapter at Meriden has 
been in existence it has used three varieties of rituals, 
and I have just seen a fourth, the revised work re- 
cently adopted by the Grand Chapter of New York 
(Maeoy's Ritual). * * * This grand body adopted 
a ritual — sending for more copies, we are informed 
they are not in print, thus forcing us to adopt the new 
one for any new chapters we may form. 

In 1877 it was 

Resolved, that uniformity of ritual in the various 
jurisdictions is desirable, and we will place no obstacle 
in the way of securing that end by the General Grand 
Chapter. 

In 1878 the General Grand Chapter ritual was 
adopted, and the grand chapter recognized "the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter as a sister body, and will co-oper- 
ate with it in such matters as in our judgment will ad- 
vance the interests' of the whole order." 

In 1890 it was 

Resolved, that the ritual of the! General Grand 
Chapter (General Grand Chapter Revised) be adopted 
as the ritual of this grand jurisdiction. 

In the masonic home matter the grand chapter in 
1892 appropriated one hundred dollars and received 
contributions amounting to twelve dollars for that 
purpose; and in 1894 it appropriated two hundred 
dollars, while the subordinate chapters contributed 
$564.12, besides many gifts of articles, which went 



CONNECTICUT. 197 

to the complete furnishing of the assembly room in 
the home at Wallingford, and in 1896 a board of vis- 
itors composed of sisters was appointed. 

Connecticut has performed two> feats unexampled 
elsewhere in the order; transacted all its business in 
a one day's meeting each year; and sustained itself 
on a per capita tax of five cents or less, and a fifty- 
cent tax on initiations. Perhaps no grand chapter can 
show a better record for permanency of chapters. Of 
the fifty-three organized in the state, including the 
Macoy chapters, forty-six survived in 1900. How 
much of this is due to the fact that almost from the 
beginning, the communicating the degrees "at sight" 
for the purpose of organizing a chapter, which has 
largely prevailed in other jurisdictions, was discon- 
tinued, it would be impossible to say. 

Grand Matron.— 1874, *A. C. Thorpe; 1875-1877, 

A. C. S. Bario (Engle); 1878-1879, Sarah A. Cullum; 
1880, Eliza A. Landon; 1881, Lizzie S. Hotchkiss; 

1882, Marian E. Drake; 1883, C. E. Billings; 1884, 
H. C. Holaday; 1885, Julietta Walker; 1886, Helen 
E. Battey; 1887, *Carrie B. Konold; 1888, Frances 
E. Holroyd; 1889, Sarah U. Wright; 1890, Clarissa 

B. Curtiss; 1891, ^Hannah S. Harvey; 1892, Julia 
A. Granniss; 1893, A. E. Leeds (Stebbins); 1894, 
Mary C. A. Perkins; 1895, Annie C. L. Wolcott; 
1S96, Ida A. Eisk; 1897, Minnie E. Willis; 1898, 
Clara M. Georgia; 1899, Buth Huntoon; 1900, Har- 
riet I. Burwell. 

Grand Patron.— 1874, *C. M. Hatch; 1875, *W. 
H. Lord; 1876-1877, Wm. W. Lee; 1878, C. J. Buck- 
bee; 1879, T. H. L. Tallcott; 1880, Charles H. Fow- 
ler; 1881, ^Chester Tilden; 1882, *John K Ensign; 

1883, George B.Whitney; 1884,*Clark Buckingham; 
1885, James M. Dow; 1886, J. M. Page; 1887-1889, 
Frank G. Bassett; 1890, Elizur B. Parsons; 1891, 

*Deceased. 



198 DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. 

James B. Pellett; 1892, Jay C. Holden; 1893, Dr. 
E. M. Bipley; 1894, ¥m. M. Gage; 1895, Merle C. 
Cowles; 1896, ¥m. B. Hall; 1897, S. G. Redshaw; 
1898, Wm. H. Pierpont; 1899, Edward M. Piatt; 
1900, Henry W. Atwood. 

Grand Secretary.— 1874-1884, Kate L. Tuttle; 
1885-1892, *FranoesB. Martin; 1893-1894, Sarah U. 
"Wright; 1895-1900, Amelia E. Leeds (Stebbins). 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. 

The first chapter chartered by the General Grand 
Chapter was Ruth !No. 1, at Brightwood, Jnly 16, 
1892. The call for the convention that organized the 
grand chapter was issued by the Most Worthy Grand 
Patron, and it met in the Scottish Bite Cathedral, 
Washington, April 30, 1896, and was presided over 
by Elmira Foley, Past Most Worthy Grand Matron, 
this being the third grand chapter which she has as- 
sisted in organizing. All the six chapters were repre- 
sented. The constitution adopted provided for two 
stated sessions each year, the annual session in Jan- 
uary, and the second in June; Past Matrons and Past 
Patrons were made permanent members of the grand 
chapter; the Grand Matron was made the executive 
head ; and all the grand officers were made elective by 
ballot. At a special session, held December 26, 1896, 
a committee was appointed to prepare resolutions re^ 
garding grand chapters not working under the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter, which reported at the annual ses- 
sion in 1897, and resolutions were adopted reciting 
that the Grand Chapter of E"ew York persists in re^- 
fusing to acknowledge allegiance to the' General 
Grand Chapter, and is endeavoring to extend its ter- 
ritory by granting charters in states other than New 
York, and declaring it clandestine, and all members 
made in its subordinates, clandestine. In September 
1898, the grand officers were authorized to suspend 

*Deceased. 



DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. 199 

the effect of these resolutions "so far as the same shall 
relate to the proper reception and treatment of the 
representatives of the Grand Chapter of E"ew York 
who shall attend the General Grand Chapter in 1898," 
and, at the session in June, 1899, all previous action 
in the matter was rescinded. 

During 1896-7 the Matrons of the chapters held 
monthly meetings to devise means for aiding the des- 
titute. A committee appointed to assist in the Na- 
tional Masonic Fair, in 1897 succeeded in raising 
$1,435.96. ! 

The Matrons, Patrons, and past officers of the chap- 
ters formed a, Soldiers' and Sailors' Relief Association, 
for the purpose of securing from each member ten 
cents per month to be distributed through the Red 
Cross Society for the benefit of sick and wounded 
United States soldiers and sailors in the Spanish- 
American war. 

In 1898 the secret work was called in, and a form 
was also adopted for an annual official visit by the 
grand officers, and the inspection of the records and 
work of each chapter in the jurisdiction. 

The entertainment of the General Grand Chapter, 
in 1898, was most successfully accomplished at a cost 
of $1,105.95. The grand chapter has a committee 
on work, which reports as to the proper manner of 
rendering the work, even to the minutest details, as, 
e. g. as to which arm of the Marshal the different offi- 
cers shall take at installation. 

In 1899, a committee was. appointed to investigate 
the advisability and practicability of establishing a 
home for aged and dependent masons, their widows 
and orphans, which reported favorably, and a perma- 
nent committee was named, which reported in detail 
a plan for the establishment of the Masonic and East- 
ern Star Home of the District of Columbia, levying 



200 DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. 

a special per capita tax of twenty-five cents per annum 
on all members, and inviting the co-operation of the 
grand lodge. 

In 1900 the charter of Adah Chapter No. 6, was 
arrested, the trouble arising from the expulsion of a 
member, the grand chapter reversing the action of the 
chapter. A committee was appointed to inaugurate 
an Eastern Star fair. In his address the Grand Pa- 
tron said: 

Many of those who have been initiated during the 
year are men high in masonic circles, showing that 
the Eastern Star is growing more popular with the 
great fraternity. 

The Grand Lecturer is an active officer, visiting 
all the chapters four times each year. The Grand 
Lecturer in 1897 and 1900 very appropriately bore 
the name of M. E. Teachum. This grand chapter is 
a live and energetic body, and has made more history 
than any other grand chapter of its age. The total 
receipts have been $2,776.92; disbursements, $2,- 
136.28; balance, $640.64. 

Decisions. — The custom of calling the Conductress 
and Associate Conductress to the West previous to as- 
certaining if all present are members of the order, is 
confirmed. 1897. 

Officers of a chapter are forbidden to assemble in 
any place other than the regular meeting place, to re- 
hearse work. 1898. 

The Worthy Matron of each chapter must prohibit 
any rituals being open, except in the hands of officers 
exemplifying the work. 1898. 

It is mandatory that all newly initiated members be 
thoroughly instructed in the obligation. 1898. 

The Worthy Patron kneels at the altar with the 
candidate, during the chanting of the Lord's prayer, 
just after the obligation. 1899. 

Only a Worthy Matron, Associate Matron, or Past 
Matron can open a chapter. 1899. 



ILLINOIS. 201 

Grand Matron.— 1896, Alcena Lamond; 1897, M. 
Ella Espey; 1898, Carolyn A. Handy; 1899, Willey 
E. Messinger; 1900, Carrie B. Allen. 

Grand Patron.— 1896, L. Cabell Williamson; 1897, 
Cornelius W. Okey; 1898, W. E. Galley; 1899, Mil- 
lard E. Dixon; 1900, John E. O'Neill. 

Grand Secretary.— 1896, W. E. Galley; 1897- 
1899, C. L. Patten; 1900, Rose A. Yost. 

ILLINOIS. 

The first chapter in the State was Miriam !No. 1, 
Chicago, which was organized March 4, 1869. It had 
previously existed as a family, having been organized 
as such October 6, 1866, but subsequently it adopted 
the Tatem ritual. The convention to organize the 
grand chapter was called by Erank Hudson, Jr., 
"Deputy Grand Patron," and met in the Commercial 
Hotel, Chicago, October 6, 1875, the ninth anniver- 
sary of the organization of Miriam Eamily. Twenty- 
two of the one hundred and eighty-one chapters that 
had been organized in the state, principally by Har- 
mon G. Reynolds, Macoy's deputy, were represented. 
Of these one hundred and eighty-one chapters, only 
twenty have maintained an uninterrupted existence; 
twenty have been reorganized, some of which have 
died ; and twenty-eight others have had an intermittent 
existence; making sixty-eight that have had a place 
on the grand chapter roll, thirty-nine of which are 
still there. Rob Morris presided at the convention, 
which met at half-past seven in the evening, and 
closed the same night, having adopted a constitution, 
organized the grand chapter, and elected officers. The 
Grand Patron was made the presiding officer, but the 
law was changd in 1877, so that the Grand Matron 
was made the executive head. 

The grand chapter was represented at the organiza- 



202 ILLINOIS. 

tion of the General Grand Chapter, and that body 
was recognized in 1877. 

In 1879 the Grand Matron reported : 

Memory Earnest Leake, born September 20, 1874, 
the orphan boy whose mother and father died of that 
fearful disease, yellow fever, now resides with an 
aunt, at Tupelo, Mississippi. One hundred dollars 
given him from the relief fund sent by the Eastern 
Star chapters of Chicago, is invested and will be kept 
as a legacy for him until his educational requirements 
become a necessity, and he is old enough to under- 
stand the 1 circumstances relative to its donation. 

We took the trouble to ascertain what this dona- 
tion helped to do for Memory Earnest, who is now 
brother, Leake. He obtained a good English educa- 
tion, and also a legal one, and is now a practicing at- 
torney at Tupelo, Mississippi, a deacon in the Baptist 
church and a useful and honorable citizen. Of the 
many acts of true charity performed by the subordi- 
nate chapters, few find record in the permanent an- 
nals of the order, and fewer still can be traced, in 
their results, as this one can be, yet the Memory of 
many such Earnest labors- is cherished in loving hearts, 
although the facts may not Leake out to the knowl- 
edge of the world, or to that of the members of the 
order generally. 

In 1879 the proceedings were printed by the acting 
Grand Secretary, and in 1880 the grand chapter "re- 
fused to recognize these so-called proceedings as the 
authorized record of the grand chapter," and a com- 
mittee was appointed "to rewrite the transactions of 
1879 from memory, and such other reliable sources 
as were at command," the acting Grand Secretary re- 
porting that the original minutes had been destroyed. 
The committee subsequently reported, and the min- 
utes were ordered recorded as usual, but not printed, 



ILLINOIS. 203 

but in 1882 the' printed minutes of 1879 were unani- 
mously adopted. The following was also adopted : 

Whereas, our Grand Patron, H. R. Kent, has ex- 
ceeded his powers, in appointing a sister to the posi- 
tion of Deputy Grand Patron, be it 

Resolved, that this grand chapter do hereby de- 
clare such acts unconstitutional, and all acts performed 
by such deputy null and void. 

In 1883 Rob Morris was present by invitation, and 
installed the officers. He was again present in 1884, 
and delivered an address. A committee was ap- 
pointed. 

To take action in the establishment of a home for 
the widows and orphans of master masons; the most 
desirable location for its establishment; the probable 
cost; the desired plans and conduct of such a home; 
with full power to solicit aid for such purpose. 

During the following year the masons, organized to 
build a masonic home, and the Grand Matron asked 
that the Eastern Star might be recognized by having 
a member on the board of trustees, which was re- 
fused, but it was granted the following year, and 
chapters contributed one hundred dollars toward it, 
and the grand chapter attended the dedication of the 
home in a body. The matter of the home was in 
abeyance, so far as the grand chapter was concerned 
until 1891, when the grand chapter appointed a com- 
mittee to induce the association to amend its rules so 
that widows and orphans of the order would stand on 
the same footing as masons' widows and orphans, but 
it was not successful in doing so. In 1895 it was de- 
termined that the order would maintain a masonic and 
Eastern Star home, and a house of twelve rooms, 
surrounded by twenty-eight acres, was purchased at 
a cost of $5,000, and the home was dedicated July 
7, 1897, there being at that time three inmates; the 
receipts for the year were $2,632.66, and the ex- 



204 ILLINOIS. 

penses $606.60. The grand chapter appropriated from, 
its funds $1,000. A picnic given by Chicago chapters 
in 1898 netted $650; the receipts that year were $3,- 
647.68, and there were four inmates. In 1899 the re- 
ceipts were $5,405.90, the expenses $4,508.47; there 
being four inmates. The grand lodge of masons made 
the home a donation of $1,000. In 1900 the home 
was reported as free from debt by the payment of the 
balance of $2,532.50 of the purchase money, which 
event was celebrated by a jubilee at the home on the 
evening of January 2d. The sale of the present 
property was proposed, as it is not fully suited to the 
needs of the work, but the matter was referred to a 
special committee to report in 1901. The receipts 
were $5,903.49, including $2,444.20 per capita tax, 
and $650 from the picnic association. The inmates 
numbered ten. 

In 1888 the State was divided into districts, and a 
Deputy Grand Matron appointed for each, and the 
system was continued until 1893, when schools of in- 
struction under the direction of the Grand Matron, 
and with the co-operation of the Grand Lecturer, were 
substituted, and they seem to have been very suc- 
cessful. 

Services in memory of Rob Morris were held by 
the Chicago chapters in the First methodist episco- 
pal church, October 2d, 1888, which were at- 
tended by the grand chapter. Sopha C. Scott, dur- 
ing whose three years as Grand Matron the number 
of active chapters increased from sixty-three to one 
hundred and twenty-eight, was presented, by friends, 
a diamond studded Past Grand Matron's jewel. In 
1895 the retiring Grand Matron was presented a dia- 
mond ring, and each of her successors has been sim- 
ilarly remembered. On two occasions the floral work 
has been exemplified before the grand chapter, the 



ILLINOIS. 205 

doors being open for the admission of non-members >; 
and the Amaranth degree was exemplified in 1893. 

An appropriation of $250 was made toward main- 
taining Eastern Star headquarters at the World's 
Fair, which resulted in a very successful Eastern Star 
corner under the management of Lorraine J. Pitkin,. 
Right Worthy Grand Secretary. 

In 1893 all copies of the secret work were called 
in, and it has since been communicated orally. The 
same year Associate Matrons were deprived of mem- 
bership in grand chapter. In 1895 the chapters at 
Champaign and Urbana furnished a room in the hos- 
pital at the former place. 

The silver anniversary of the grand chapter was 
celebrated October 4, 1899, with appropriate cere- 
monies, addresses being delivered by several distin- 
guished speakers, and Lorraine J. Pitkin prepared an 
historical sketch. 

Twenty-five chapters were organized in 1900. 

All meetings of the grand chapter have been held 
in Chicago, except that of 1896, which was held in 
Peoria, when the local chapters exemplified the vocal 
star and floral work. 

There have been 468 chapters on the roll of this 
grand chapter, 400 of which made reports in 1900. 

An idea of the transactions of this, the largest 
graud chapter, may be gained from the record, for 
1900. The attendance included eighteen grand offi- 
cers, twenty-six past grand officers, 261 Worthy Ma- 
trons, 76 Worthy Patrons, 192 proxies, 117 Past Ma- 
trons and 36 Past Patrons, a total of 726. The re- 
ceipts were $9,666.91, and the disbursements $4,- 
579.93, not including those on account of the home. 
The mileage aggregated $2,752.38. 

Decisions. — Unaffiliated master masons and their 
female relatives are eligible to the degrees. 1887- 
Repealed in 1899. 



206 ILLINOIS. 

Expulsion involves an absolute deprivation of all 
the rights, privileges and benefits of the order to 
the delinquent, and Ms family. 1887. The last three 
words were stricken out in 1893. 

The titles brother and sister should be used only 
in the precincts of the chapter room. 1896. 

Electioneering in any way for one's self for office 
in the grand chapter, is prohibited, and any member 
found guilty of the offense shall be ineligible to of- 
fice, and if already in office, shall forfeit the office 
held by him or her. 1899. 

Grand Matron.— 1875, Elizabeth Butler; 1876- 
1877, *Laura K Young; 1878, L. J. Pitkin; 1879, 
M. Lemon; 1880-1881, Jeannette W. Ashley; 1882- 
1883, Jane E. Oozine; 1884-1885, Jennie A. Walker; 
1886-1888, Sopha C. Scott; 1889-1890, SueM. Simp- 
son; 1891-1892, Jane Kicketts; 1893, Nettie C. Ken- 
ner; 1894, Mate L. Chester; 1895, May Brown; 1896, 
Jennie W. Freeman; 1897, Sarah B. Haggard; 1898, 
May Chapman; 1899, Sadie B. Morrison; 1900, Lottie 
J. Wiley. 

Grand Patron.— 1875, Daniel G. Burr; 1876-1877, 
Henry B. Kent; 1878, ^Joseph W. Watson; 1879, 
Henry K. Kent; 1880, James M. Biroe; 1881, Alonzo 
Eaton; 1882, *John E. Dickinson; 1883-1885, A. B. 
Ashley; 1886, John E. Pettibone; 1887, W. O. But- 
ler; 1888-1889, E. L. Palmer; 1890, George F. How- 
ard; 1891, A. H. Wright; 1892, W. H. Bartels; 1893, 
D. H. Zepp; 1894, G. A. Edwards; 1895, C. L. 
Hovey; 1896, *K D. Kicks; 1897, W. B. Carlock; 
1898, J. J. Crowder; 1899, F. M. Hocker; 1900, 
D. W. Whittenberg. 

Grand Secretary. — 1875-1878, Frank Hudson, Jr.; 
1879-1880, *Laura 1ST. Young; 1881, Lizzie Mulford; 
1882-1891, Mary A. Beale; 1892-1897, Sopha C. 
Scott; 1898-1900, Mate L. Chester. 

*Deceased. 



INDIANA. 



207 



INDIANA. 

Rob Morris first communicated, tine degree in this 
state of New Jersey, in 1852, and subsequently lie 
communicated it on upwards of two -hundred occa- 
sions. A grand lodge of adoptive masonry was or- 
ganized at Elkhart, January 27, 1869, by representa- 
tives of five lodges working the Tatem ritual, the or- 
ganization being patterned closely after that of Mich- 
igan. A second meeting was held in October, 1869, 
which closed to meet the following October, but it 
failed to ever meet again, and the lodges composing 
it soon ceased to exist. The 
principal officers were 
Sarah Eldridge, Grand 
Worthy President (who 
died at Junction City, 
Kansas, February 4, 1899, 
and to whose memory the 
Grand Chapter of Kansas 
inscribed a memorial 
page); G. W. Neihardt, 
Grand Vice-President, at organization; Prank Salis- 
bury, Grand Vice-President in October, 1869; and 
Josephine Heath, Grand Secretary. 

Brother Macoy chartered the first chapter at State 
Line City in January, 1870, and subsequently twenty- 
five other chapters, but fifteen chapters, however, sur- 
vived at the time of the organization of the grand 
chapter, at Anderson, May 6, 1874, when Rev. John 
Leach, "Deputy Supreme Patron," presided, ten chap- 
ters being represented. The constitution adopted 
made the Grand Patron the executive head, and fixed 
the per capita dues at twenty-five cents per annum. 
It did not make Past Matrons or Past Patrons mem- 
bers of the grand chapter, nor provide for grand of- 
ficers at the points of the star. Sisters only were al- 




208 INDIANA. 

lowed to vote in subordinate chapters, although breth- 
ren enjoyed the franchise in the grand chapter, (See 
page 40,) but they were given the right to vote in 
chapters in 1877, when, also, the Grand Matron was 
made the executive head of the grand chapter, this 
being the first grand chapter to make' such a change. 
Grand officers were also added at the points of the 
star. In 1879 the grand chapter voted not to publish 
in its proceedings so much of the Grand Matron's ad- 
dress as referred "to brother Robert Macoy and his 
ritual/' as it was "not proper matter to be spread upon 
the records," after which the Grand Matron refused to 
furnish any part of it for publication, but she subse- 
quently published it in pamphlet form, with explana- 
tory remarks. As the writer was at the time Grand 
Patron, and the object of some of the shafts of the 
Grand Matron, he will not discuss the matter, but 
will quote the opinion of brother Thomas M. Lamb, 
the correspondent of Massachusetts : 

We think it would have been better had the grand 
chapter published the whole address, accompanied 
by exposition of the fallacies contained in the objec- 
tionable part. Its fallacies were quite obvious to the 
grand chapter, and would be no less so to the order, 
when made familiar with the facts. The sister is a 
good writer, * * * yet we find in the address 
nothing new bearing upon the controversy which Mr. 
Macoy has very unwisely provoked between himself 
and the order. * * * The fact is Mr. Macoy did not 
write the ritual he so presumptuously copyrighted. He 
has plucked the fruit others have grown, and demands 
that the order make no effort to get better, but pro- 
tect him in its sale at an exorbitant price. The East- 
ern Star and its ritual are inseparable, and Mr. Ma- 
coy has no more legal or moral right to claim owner- 
ship in one than the other. * * * We take no 
issue with the sister on the value of Mr. Macoy's serv- 
ices as one of the founders of the order; we are chiefly 
concerned with his present attitude of bitter hostility 



INDIANA. 209 

to its inherent and inalienable right to control its rit- 
ualistic work. Remembrance of past services can 
make no atonement for present hostility. * * * 
He has spoken of the ritual published by the General 
Grand Chapter, and its officers, in language which 
self-respect, and a regard for the decencies of life 
will not permit us to quote. We are amazed that the 
sister should so much respect one who so little respects 
himself, and that she should merit the fulsome praise 
of one whose censure would bear to her more honor. 

The grand chapter located at Indianapolis in 1879, 
and has held all its subsequent meetings in that city, 
except the one in 1899, which was held in Tort 
"Wayne, at which was celebrated the twenty-fifth an- 
niversary, in a suitable manner. In 1881 Jennie B. 
Phelps was elected Grand Matron, but declined the 
honor. In 1884 chapters contributed $67.50, through 
the grand lodge officers, for the relief of sufferers from 
floods on the Ohio river. In her address the Grand 
Matron spoke of a labor of love undertaken by her 
home chapter : 

We have now in hand a work which I am sure will 
meet the approbation of every mother — that of car- 
ing for a little boy, the son of a master mason. The 
little fellow is receiving treatment for paralysis at the 
Surgical Institute. He was brought here nearly a 
year ago by his father, who, after keeping him here 
six months, felt that he must take him home, for sick- 
ness and death in the family had made such calls that 
the finances would not admit of the extra expense of 
keeping him here. Upon learning this fact, the mem- 
bers of Queen Esther Chapter determined to assume 
the responsibility of meeting his expenses, and have 
so far succeeded by giving socials, and gathering here 
a little and there a little. 

In 1885 Jacob J. Todd was re-elected Grand Pa- 
tron, but declined. 

In 1887 the grand chapter unanimously adopted 



210 INDIANA. 

the closing paragraph of the correspondence report, 
written by Martin H. Rice, as follows: 

We had completed and signed the foregoing review 
before this morning's session of the grand chapter, 
expecting to submit it at the proper time, without 
comment; but when we entered the hall this morn- 
ing, and saw so many earnest working masons pres- 
ent, taking such an active interest in the welfare of 
the order, and willing to do all in their power to pro- 
mote its interests, we could not refrain from adding 
a few words in conclusion, and declaring in the most 
emphatic terms, that this is not a "woman's order/ 7 in 
the sense that many would have it to be, but a grand 
organization of master masons, their wives, mothers, 
sisters, and daughters, united together so that all may 
more fully enjoy the benefits flowing so freely from 
the grand old institution of freemasonry. "We want 
to put ourselves on record as opposing all efforts to 
divorce this order from masonry, or to establish it in 
any way independent of that honored institution. We 
feel confident that there is no disposition on the part 
of our sisters in Indiana to weaken this order by alien- 
ating from it the hearty support of the masonic broth- 
erhood, and we want to afford those in this grand 
chapter an opportunity to say to all whom it may 
concern whether they endorse the sentiments that we 
have expressed. This they can do by adopting 
or rejecting this conclusion to our report. 

In 1880 the Grand Matron divided the state into 
districts and appointed a deputy for each, but the 
custom was not incorporated into the law, and has not 
been followed since. Five hundred dollars were appro- 
priated for the entertainment of the Greneral Grand 
Chapter at its second meeting in Indianapolis. In 
1892 it was 

Resolved, that it is the sense of this grand body 
rhat the time lias arrived when some definite action 
should be taken relative to establishing a home for 
the widows, orphans and aged members of the ma- 
sonic fraternity, and while we disclaim any intention 



INDIANA. 



211 



of either dictating or instructing the great "body of 
masons in the state of Indiana as to their duty, we 
do desire to place on record the fact that we will be 
found working in the vineyard of charity, when the 
home, which we have an abiding faith to believe will 
eventually be built, shall have become a reality. 

The chairman of the committee appointed to fur- 
ther the movement died in the year following, and 
nothing further has been done. The floral work was 
rendered before the 
the grand chapter 
for the first time 
and the grand chap- 
ter presented ¥m. 
H. Smythe an out- 
fit of solid silver ta- 
bleware on his retir- 
ing from the office 
of Grand Secretary 
after seventeen 
years' service, in 
1893; and a resolution of sympathy with Net- 
tie Kansford, Past Grand Matron, who was unable 
to attend the meeting on account of an accident, was 
adopted, and the following year she was presented 
$118.50, the amount of subscriptions made by sub- 
ordinate chapters as a testimonial of love and respect, 
and Miriam Chapter, Greenfield, presented Addie C. 
S. Engle a token of the love of its members, Olive E. 
McGrew, Grand Matron, being unable, on account of 
illness, to attend the grand chapter in 1896, resolu- 
tions of loving regret were sent her. The vocal star 
was exemplified before the grand chapter for the first 
time in 1897. 

Addie C. S. Engle was elected an honorary mem- 
ber of the grand chapter in 1883; Jeannette W. Ash- 
ley and Albert B. Ashley in 1891; and "William H. 
Smythe in 1900. 




212 INDIANA. 

The twenty-fifth anniversary celebration was a 
notable event, Willis D. Engle writing up the history 
of the order in the state making a book of 104 pages, 
besides the portraits of all the Past Grand Matrons 
and Past Grand Patrons. Addresses were made by 
the Grand Matron and a number of the' older past 
officers, and a glass paper weight containing the star 
of the order and suitable inscription, was issued to 
commemorate the event. 

In 1900 the Mystic Tie was presented for the first 
time before the grand chapter. 

The total number of chapters on the roll, including 
those chartered in 1900, is 272, of which 227 survive.. 
The total receipts have been $33,180.44; and the dis- 
bursements $29,867.81; the balance being $3,312.63. 

Decisions. — A master mason's widow loses her mem- 
mership in the order by marriage with one who> is 
not a mason. 1875. Repealed in 1877. 

This grand chapter prohibits any of its members 
from publishing their objections to any of the acts of 
any of the officers of the order. 1875. 

The ballot is a finality, and when a candidate is 
elected the chapter is in duty bound to initiate. 1876. 

Canvassing for votes for any office in this grand 
chapter by announcement cards, either printed or 
written, is not in accord with the spirit of the order, 
and the same is forbidden 1898. 

A deaf mute is not eligible! to the degrees. 1891. 

Officers of a chapter may be elected either by voice 
or ballot. 1893. Law changed to require ballot, in 
1895. 

The wife of a master mason who has not attained the 
age of eighteen years is eligible to the degrees. 1895. 

Members have: a right to urge people to join a 
chapter, but it should be done with moderation. 1898. 

A blind person is not eligible to the degrees. 1900. 

The floral work can not be given in public. 1900. 

Grand Patron.— 1874, M. A. Taylor (Tarleton); 
1875-1877, Mary A. Comstock; 1878, Mary E. M. 



INDIAN TERRITORY. 213 

Price; 1879-1880, Nettie Hansford; 1881-1882, 
*Mary B. High; 1883, Nettie Bansford; 1884, Mary 
E. Spitler; 1885, Clara B. Kendall; 1886-1887, Carrie 
M. Fanning; 1888, *Anna Y. Lakin; 1889, Mary E. 
Mason; 1890-1891, Augusta V. Hunter; 1892, Eva 
M. Hollinger; 1893, Helen E. Macomber; 1894, Jen- 
nie Myerhoff ; 1895, Olive E. McGrew; 1896, Jennie 
T. Nye; 1897, Mamie Conrad; 1898, Lizzie J. 
Smythe; 1899, Sarah E. Gardiner; 1900, Alice E. 
Stewart. 

Grand Patron. — 1874, *Bev. John Leach; 1875, 
James A. Thompson; 1876, *James S. Eutt; 1877- 
1878, Kev. Willis D. Engle; 1879, Henry G. Thayer; 
1880, Wm. G. Burnett; 1881, Martin H. Kioe; 1882, 
*Bobert YanYalzah; 1883, * Albert H. Kaiser; 1884, 
*Jacob J. Todd; 1885, James W. Morrison; 1886, 
♦George C. Dorland; 1887, Edwin D. Palmer; 1888, 
David J. Thompson; 1889, Edward J. Church; 1890, 
Ered W. Banning; 1891, Irvin B. Webber, M. D.; 
1892, E. N. Wilkinson; 1893, Oliver B. Sargent; 
1894, ^Joseph A. Manning; 1895, A. W. Hemple- 
man; 1896, Peter E. Hoss; 1897, Christopher B. 
Stemen, M. D.; 1898, Wm. H. Glascock; 1899, Ed- 
ward W. Barrows; 1900, Daniel McDonald. 

Grand Secretary. — 1874-1875, * James S. Nutt; 
1876-1892, Wm. H. Smythe; 1893, Lizzie J. Smythe; 
1894-1900, Nettie Bansford. 

INDIAN TERRITORY. 

The first chapter organized was O-ho-yo^hom-ma 
(Bed Woman's) 'No. 1, Atoka, chartered by the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter February 25, 1879, through the 
efforts of Joseph S. Murrow, Grand Master of ma- 
sons. Two years later, An-tek Hom-ma chapter was 
organized at McAlester. The call for the convention 
to organize the grand chapter was issued by chapter 

*Deceased. 



214 INDIAN TERRITORY. 

No. 1, and it met at Atoka, July 11, 1889, when six 
of the eight chapters in the territory were represented. 
The Grand Matron was 1 made the executive head of 
the grand chapter, the per capita, dues were fixed 
at twenty-five cents per annum, and allegiance was de- 
clared to the General Grand Chapter. 

Upon the setting off of Oklahoma Territory the 
question of jurisdiction arose between the grand chap- 
ter and the officers of the: General Grand Chapter,, 
but in 1892 the General Grand Chapter decided that 
the grand chapter had jurisdiction. 

In 18 92 the territories were divided into five districts 
with a Deputy Grand Matron in each, and a commit* 
tee was appointed "to work up an interest for the or- 
. phans' fund," which reported the following year that 
twenty-five dollars had been contributed, and small 
annual additions have been made to it, which made 
an aggregate in 1899 of one hundred and sixty-eight 
dollars and twenty cents. 

Beginning in 1893 Past Grand Matron's jewels have 
been presented to Grand Matrons on retiring from 
office. 

The floral work was first exemplified before the 
grand chapter in 1891. 

In 1896 the Grand Secretary noted that the ther- 
mometer stood at 108, on August 13th, when the 
grand chapter proceeded to confer the degrees upon 
Slv& candidates, residents of four different places where 
no chapters existed, with the view of organizing chap- 
ters therein, but the subsequent history shows that 
chapters were organized in only two of them. One 
of the candidates was Grand Master of masons and the 
last chief of the Wyandotte Indians. Every brother 
that is a Past Grand Miaster in the Indian Territory 
is a member of the order. Another of the candidates 
was the Grand Commander of the Knights Templar. 



INDIAN TERRITORY. 215 

The Grand Chapter of !New York was declared clan- 
destine, and all Eastern Star intercourse with it was 
prohibited, but the declaration was suspended during 
the meeting of the General Grand Chapter in 1898, 
but was again put in force in 1899. A bonus of five 
dollars was voted to any one "who will organize a 
chapter." 

Carrie M. Perkins, Past Grand Matron, who served 
as Grand Secretary for six years, died in 1900. The 
committee on addresses in 1898 well said that "prob- 
ably to sister Perkins more than to any other one per- 
son, is due the success of the order in these two terri- 
tories.'' In 1900 memorial services were held by the 
grand chapter, 

While the soft throbbing tones of the organ filled 
the room the grand chapter was called up as the Grand 
Conductress, sister Madeline B. Conkling, and the As- 
sociate Grand Conductress, sister Emma Cotton, en- 
tered bearing between them an appropriately draped 
easel on which rested the pictured, sunny face of our 
beloved Grand Secretary. Slowly, tenderly they bore 
it past Esther whose lesson of fidelity to kindred and 
friends our sister had so fully exemplified in life as 
a bereaved husband and many others present could 
testify; past Martha, whose sublime lessons she was, 
even now, experiencing; on past Electa, whose teach- 
ings of charity and hospitality had ever been most 
generously heeded, finally placing it in the grand east 
which she had once so graciously filled. In faltering 
tones the Grand Matron gave the command and once 
again Carrie M. Perkins received the grand honors 
from the companions who loved her so well. 

The Grand Patron issued a special dispensation by 
telephone, and the same appears in the proceedings as 
under seal. The Grand Matron endorsed an appeal 
of the trustees of the masonic home: for which the 
grand lodges of the two territories are raising funds, 
and the following was adopted: 

Whereas; the grand lodge, A. P. and A. M., of 



216 INDIAN TERRITORY. 

Indian Territory, and the grand lodge, A. F. and A. 
M., of Oklahoma Territory, have each endorsed the 
Order of the Eastern Star as being a valuable adjunct 
to masonry; and, 

Whereas, brother H. M. Eurman is financial agent 
of the masonic orphan home of Indian Territory and 
William H. Mead is trustee of the masonic orphan 
home fund of Oklahoma Territory; be it 

Resolved, that this grand chapter requests each 
local chapter under its jurisdiction to appoint a special 
committee of two to co-operate with the aforenamed 
brethren and solicit funds and plan methods for rais- 
ing money in their locality. The chapters in Indian 
Territory to turn over all funds so collected to the 
Grand Secretary of the grand chapter O. E. S., and 
the chapters in Oklahoma territory to forward funds 
so collected to ¥m. EL Mead, Kingfisher, Oklahoma 
Territory. 

A petition was presented by eleven chapters in Ok- 
lahoma asking that the chapters in that territory be al- 
lowed to withdraw and organize a grand chapter, but 
a resolution to allow them to do so was laid upon the 
table. The grand chapter finds itself in rather awk- 
ward position as the order is, by the law of the grand 
chapter, governed in many things by the laws of the 
masonic grand lodge, and as it exercises jurisdiction 
over the territory of two grand lodges the result is 
that what is good Eastern Star law in one part of the 
territory is not in another part. 

Total number of chapters chartered, 71; still on 
the roll, 64; reporting in 1900, 40. 

Decisions. — A Past Matron can open a chapter for 
a stated meeting in the absence of the three principal 
officers. 1896. 

A dimit should be issued when called for, if all 
dues are paid, and no charges preferred, and not wait 
for regular meeting of chapter. 1900. 

It would require six months in Oklahoma and 
twelve months' residence in Indian Territory before 
a petition can be received. 1900. 



iowa. . 217 

Grand Matron.— 1889-1890, Mary E. McClnre; 
1891-1892, Clara A. McBride; 1893, *Carrie M. Per- 
kins; 1894, Mary D. Walrond; 1895, Mary M. Rog- 
ers; 1896, Rebecca M. Swain; 1897, Sallie M. Scott; 
1898, Malda K Charles; 1899-1900, M. Alice Miller. 

Grand Patron. — 1889, John Rennie; 1890, Rev. 
Jos. S. Murrow; 1891-1892, Zaohary T. Yv r alrond; 
1893, Rev. Louis S. Byrd; 1894, Rev. A. Frank 
Ross; 1895-1896, Leo E. Bennett; 1897, Henry 
Rucker; 1898, W. L. Eagleton; 1899, George "YV. 
Cotton; 1900, Hugo Haas. 

Grand Secretary.— 1889-1892, Edmond H. Boyle; 
1893, Leo E. Bennett; 1894-1899, ^Carrie M. Per- 
kins; 1900, Clara A. McBride. 

IOWA. 

The first chapter was organized in Clermont, in 
April, 1870, and fifty-nine charters were sold in the 
state by brother Macoy. Of these fifty-nine chapters, 
twelve survive to-day, but only six of them have 
maintained an uninterrupted existence. Of the two- 
hundred and ninety-six chapters that have obtained a 
place on the grand chapter roll, two hundred and 
sixty-one reported in 1900, ten of the thirty-five chap- 
ters lost from the roll being old Macoy chapters, which 
is certainly a good record as to >the stability of the 
order in the state. 

The first chapter reorganized in the state by the 
General Grand Chapter was Ruth E"o. 6, Iowa City, 
May 9, 1877, and it was the first subordinate chapter 
organized anywhere by authority of that body; four 
other Macoy chapters surrendered their charters in 
exchange for General Grand Chapter charters, and 
four new chapters were organized before the conven- 
tion to organize the grand chapter met in Cedar 
Rapids, July 30, 1878, upon the call of Jennie E. 
Mathews, deputy of the Most "Worthy Grand Patron, 

^Deceased. 



218 iowa. 

who had been the active agent in the work, when 
seven chapters were represented. At that time a con- 
stitution was adopted, and allegiance to the General 
Grand Chapter declared. The Grand Patron was 
made the executive head of the grand chapter, but in 
1881 the Grand Matron succeeded to that authority. 
The annual dues were fixed at twenty-five cents per 
capita but were increased to thirty-five cents in 1887. 
At the second meeting regalia was adopted as fol- 
lows: 

For sisters, a scarf with white ground, six inches 
wide, the five colors to be worked around the edge. 
For brothers, a master mason's apron, with stars 
worked in at the two points, and borders of the ^.yq 
colors. 

Subsequently the officers' scarfs and aprons were 
ordered made of different colors, while the members' 
scarfs and aprons were white, bordered with the five 
colors. The veteran Grand Secretary, T. S. Parvin, 
and Grand Master 0. T. Granger, were elected hon- 
orary members of the grand chapter. In 1890 the 
constitution was amended so as to give subordinate 
chapters additional representation in the grand chap- 
ter in proportion to membership. 

Upon her retiring from office after ^.ve years' serv- 
ice as Grand Matron, in 1891, during which time she 
had made two hundred official visits to chapters, Har- 
riette A. Ereanbrack was presented a Past Grand Ma- 
tron's jewel. It will be noticed that sister Ereanbrack 
was first elected Grand Matron the same year that 
her husband retired after four years' service as Grand 
Patron, making nine succeeding years in which the 
grand chapter was under the efficient guiding hand 
of one or the other of the two. 

In 1892 a Past Grand Matron's jewel was presented 
to sister Mathews which cost one hundred dollars. 



iowa. 219 

In 1893 the state was divided into districts, with a 
Deputy Grand Matron in each. 

In 1896 it was ordered that the secret work he 
printed in cypher, and in 1900 that the secret work 
printed in full should be placed in the hands of the 
Patron for twenty days, when it must be returned to 
the Grand Secretary, and exchanged for the work in 
cypher, and that the grand chapter shall, as soon as 
possible, call in all the printed secret work, and re- 
place it in cypher. 

By order of the grand chapter the memorial serv- 
ice of sister Engle is held at each annual meeting. In 
1897 the floral star was sent to the widow of Theo- 
dore Schreiner, who had been the Grand Sentinel of 
the grand chapter from its organization, and who w r as 
the first grand officer to die in office. In 1898 the star 
was sent to the widow of Past Grand Patron Dyke, 
and in 1899 to the mother of brother Underwood who 
was killed in the Spanish war. In 1900 the Grand 
Matron made a special address in memory of Past 
Grand Patron Winslow. 

In the address of the Grand Matron in 1898, the 
following extract from the address of the Grand Mas- 
ter of Masons was incorporated : 

My observation is that where chapters of the Or- 
der of the Eastern Star have been established it has 
added a new zest to masonry, stimulating its social 
features, and indeed, proving itself an active auxil- 
iary to our order. If this is true, it would follow that 
it is little for us to do to so far extend our good 
wishes and fraternal sympathy as shall afford en- 
couragement. That we may do so, I suggest the adop- 
tion of the following, or some like enactment as a 
standing regulation : 

That the organization known and designated as the 
Order of the Eastern Star, when composed of ma- 
sons, their wives, widows, mothers, sisters and daugh- 
ters, may occupy masonic halls for festal and cere- 
monial purposes. 



220 iowa. 

This was approved and adopted. In a resolution of 
acknowledgment adopted by the grand chapter it i3 
erroneously stated that "Brother Dewey was the first 
Grand Master to recommend the courtesy from the 
grand masonic brotherhood." DanielMcDonald,when 
Grand Master of Indiana, in. 1876, ruled that chapters 
were entitled to the use of masonic halls, and the 
grand lodge, the same year, declared the Order of the 
Eastern Star to be a masonic body, within the intent 
of the law that prohibits the use of masonic halls by 
other than masonic bodies. 

In 1893 a grand chapter charity fund was created, 
and five hundred dollars of the money in the treasury 
appropriated thereto, and it was ordered that the pro- 
ceeds of property sold, which may be forfeited to the 
grand chapter by chapters ceasing to exist, shall be 
added hereto. The aggregate of this fund amounted 
to seven hundred and seventy-four dollars and sev- 
enty-four cents, in 1900. For several years a num- 
ber of chapters maintained mite boxes for the benefit 
of this fund, which added to it something over one 
hundred dollars. 

In response to an appeal in behalf of the sufferers 
from the Galveston flood made October 3, 1900, 
128 chapters contributed before November 12th, 
eight hundred and thirty-two dollars and three cents, 
which was both prompt and generous. 

In 1900 there were nine hundred and thirty-two 
votes in grand chapter. The receipts were $7,465.36 ; 
and the disbursements $1,375.38; balance $6,089.98, 
beside the charity fund. 

Of the forty-one persons who have held elective 
offices in the grand chapter, but three have died, and 
of the thirteen (lucky number) who were present at 
the organization of the grand chapter, Jennie E. Math- 
ews, O. "N. "Williams, Maria Jackson, and George H. 
Jackson are still leading workers in the body. 



KANSAS. 221 

Decisions. — Eligibility to membership is not depend- 
ent upon a perfect physical organization. 1892. 

Chapters have a right to use the square and com- 
passes on the bible. 1895. 

The floral work may be given publicly. 1895. 

Petitioners for affiliation may be elected by a two- 
thirds vote. 

A sister under charges cannot act as her own coun- 
sel, as the law says counsel must be a mason in pos- 
session of the degrees. 1898. Reversed in 1899. 

The candidates should be requested to give the sign 
and pass after the lecture in each degree. 1899. 

A chapter has no right to appear in public on other 
than Eastern Star or masonic occasions. 1899. 

If petitions come after chapter has been closed, but 
none have left the room, they can be received. 1900. 

As a rule one who is not present can not be elected 
to office; exceptions by consent. 1900. 

Grand Matron.— 1878-1879, O. K". Williams; 
1880-1883, Jennie E. Mathews; 1884-1885, Mary C. 
Agnew; 1886-1890, H. A. Ercanbrack; 1891-1892, 
Maria Jackson; 1893-1894, Sarah E. Woods; 1895, 
Jennie A. Rule; 1896-1897, Delia Meredith; 1898- 
1899, Mary B. Rathbun; 1900, Freda Oppenheimer. 

Grand Patron.— 1878-1879, George H. Jackson; 

1880, J. Norwood Clark; 1881, S. A. Calvert; 1882- 
1885; T. R, Ercanbrack; 1886-1889, Sabert M. Ca- 
sey; 1890, George M. Barrette; 1891, Frank M. How- 
ard; 1892-1893, *H. S. Winslow; 1894-1895, 
*EugeneB. Dyke: 1896, John Westley Geiger; 1897- 
1898,- "William H. Morris; 1899-1900, A. J. Small. 

Grand Secretary.— 1878-1879, E. E. Savage; 1880- 

1881, D. H. Moore; 1882-1892, *Eugene B. Dyke; 
1893-1900, Maria Jackson. 

KANSAS. 

The first chapter was Esther No. 1, at Burlington, or- 
ganized in December, 1875, and eighty-two were or- 
ganized, principally through the labors of Harmon G. 

^Deceased. 



222 KANSAS. 

Reynolds, who called the convention to organize the 
grand chapter, at Emporia, October 18, 1876, when 
forty-two chapters were represented, thirty-one of 
them by proxies, many of the proxies not being mem- 
bers of the chapters they represented. The Grand 
Patron was made the executive head of the grand 
chapter, but this was changed in 1877, since which 
time the Grand Matron has held the authority. The 
constitution also provided for a Deputy Grand Pa- 
tron, and a Deputy Grand Matron, but these offices 
were abolished in 1878. The annual per capita dues 
were fixed at ten cents, but were raised in 1877 to 
twenty cents, and in 1896 to thirty cents. 

In 1877 delegates were elected to the General 
Grand Chapter, with discretionary powers, who, for 
the grand chapter, formally gave its allegiance to the 
General Grand Chapter at its meeting in 1878. 

In 1878 the junior Past Grand Matron and the 
Grand Matron and Grand Patron were made custo- 
dians of the work, and have been so continued ever 
since. 

By the provisions of the constitution the annual 
meetings were held at the same time and place as the 
meetings of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Ma- 
sons, and owing to the postponement of its meeting 
from October, 1879, to February, 1880, no meeting of 
the grand chapter was held in 1879. The annual 
meeting was changed in 1882 to such time and place 
as the grand chapter shall designate. 

In 1880 it was 

Resolved, that it is the sense of this grand chapter 
that all master masons within the jurisdiction of the 
grand lodge of the State of Kansas should unite in 
active membership with the Order of the Eastern Star. 

An Eastern Star Association, whose object is to 
properly celebrate the festal day of the order, was or- 



KANSAS. 223 

ganized by members in Kansas and western Mis- 
souri in IS 84, which, we believe, has since annually 
held most enjoyable picnics, which have been par- 
ticipated in by goodly numbers. 

A Past Grand Matron's jewel was presented to the 
retiring Grand Matron in 1886, and, with few excep- 
tions all Grand Matrons have been similarly remem- 
bered with valuable gifts. In 1891 it was 

Resolved, that, in token of the high appreciation 
of her services, the grand chapter extends to its first 
Grand Matron, Mary A. Hepler, a heartfelt welcome, 
and authorizes the Grand Secretary to draw an order 
on the Grand Treasurer refunding to her the amount 
of her expenses incurred in attending this meeting, 
and this be done annually so long as she remains in 
this grand jurisdiction. 

In 1893 the grand chapter presented sister Hepler 
a gold watch, suitably inscribed, and, in 1895, appro- 
priated ten dollars per month to her during the re- 
mainder of her life. Sister Hepler's services to the 
order in Kansas and generally, have been invaluable, 
and she well deserves all the kindnesses that the order 
can bestow upon her. 

The grand chapter in 1891 also voted to appropriate 
fifty dollars annually to aid Electa Chapter in caring 
for the orphan, Emma Avery, so long as the chapter 
has her in charge. 

At the funeral of Lizzie E. Gabriel, Associate 
Grand Matron, in February, 1891, the Knight Temp- 
lar Commanclery, by permission of the Grand Com- 
mander, acted as escort to the chapter, which per- 
formed the funeral rites of the order, and, in 1892, a 
chapter of sorrow was held in her memory, and that 
of Georgiana SeCoy, Past Grand Matron, by the 
grand chapter. Ivy Chapter held a chapter of sorrow 
during the meeting of the grand chapter in 189,5, in 
memory of George A. Colton, Past Grand Patron, and 



224 KANSAS. 

in 1898 a grand chapter of sorrow was held in mem- 
ory of J. Ira Brown, Past Grand Patron, and William 
Julien, Grand Sentinel. 

By invitation of the Grand Gommandery, the meet- 
ing of the grand chapter was held at Topeka, in 1893. 
The many courtesies extended to the order by the dif- 
ferent branches of masonry in Kansas and elsewhere 
are noted in this history to show the growing recog- 
nition of the order, and of its good works. No one who 
has come into the order in recent years can so fully 
appreciate the contrast between the condition of mat- 
ters in this regard and what formerly prevailed, as 
can those who were early laborers in its upbuilding. 
In an historical address delivered by Mary H. Buck, 
Past Grand Matron, at the twenty-first annual meet- 
ing, she said : 

In those days it was deemed expedient to meet at 
the same time and place' as the masonic grand lodge. 
I well remember the cold stare we received, and the 
elevated noses of some of the brethren, as we were 
compelled at times to pass through their committee 
rooms and ante-rooms', going to and from our place 
of meeting. * * * There was much prejudice 
to overcome on behalf of our order in the minds of 
even the truest and best of masons; the idea having 
become fossilized with many, that woman never had 
been and never could be made a mason — never had 
and never could keep a secret. But I can safely say 
we have learned to do even that better than many of 
them, for if by chance any terrible mystery is re- 
vealed "to the profane," it is usually traceable to the 
brethren. 

A painting designed by sister Hepler giving a pic- 
torial history of the order in Kansas was paid for by 
contributions from the subordinate chapters, amount- 
ing to three hundred dollars, and was displayed in the 
Kansas building at the "World's Pair, and it now adorns 
the walls of the Kansas Masonic Home. 



KANSAS. 225 

In 1894 the grand chapter, in token of its apprecia- 
tion of his noble work for the order and in consider- 
ation of his great zeal in the cause of the Kansas Ma- 
sonic Home, authorized the local chapter at its place 
of meeting to confer the degrees upon Matthew M. 
Miller, Grand Correspondent of the grand lodge, in 
the presence of the grand chapter, and gave him a cer- 
tificate which would enable him to affiliate with any 
chapter, and also took similar action relative to the 
wife of the Grand Recorder of Knights Templar. 

In 1895 the grand chapter was invited to attend a 
reception and ball given by Mt. Olivet Commandery, 
Knights Templar, and in 1898 the Grand Command- 
ery unanimously adopted the following: 

Fesolved, that the Grand Commandery of Knights 
Templar in annual conclave assembled heieby extends 
to the Order of the Eastern Star our knightly and cour- 
teous greetings, and our sincere wish that their ses- 
sion may be pleasant and harmonious, and their legis- 
lation wise and judicious. 

In the matter of a Masonic Home the grand chapter 
took the initiative in 1885 when a committee was ap- 
pointed to confer with the grand lodge, and join it in 
the establishment of such a home, and in 1886 it 
was 

Resolved, that the Grand Chapter of the Order of 
the Eastern Star of Kansas establish within its juris- 
diction a masonic home for master masons, their wid- 
ows and orphans. 

A committee was appointed to carry the resolution 
into execution, but little advance was made until 
1890, when a committee was appointed to confer with 
the grand lodge, which reported in 1891 having done 
so, and that the grand lodge by a unanimous vote ap- 
pointed a committee to co-operate in the movement, 
and in 1892 it so amended its constitution that it 



226 KANSAS. 

might do so, and appointed a committee "to co-operate 
with similar committees from the other regular and 
recognized masonic bodies, and the Order of the East- 
ern Star, to furnish plans for arranging and carrying 
into effect the action of the grand lodge.' 7 At its or- 
ganization, and continuously since, a sister was made 
a member of the board of directors, the first time that 
a woman has served in such a capacity. The regula- 
tions were made to provide for the admission of the 
children of members of the order. 

In 1895, the grand lodge having decided to aban- 
don the project on account of the prevailing hard 
times, the grand chapter asked the grand lodge: to re- 
consider its action, and to take steps toward founding 
a home, pledging the hearty assistance! of the order. 
To this request the grand lodge acceded, and in 1896 
an annual per capita tax of ten cents was made by the 
grand chapter for the object; a standing committee on 
the home was provided for; the twenty-fourth of June 
was made Masonic Home day, which each subordinate 
chapter was requested to devote to raising money for 
the home. Eight hundred dollars were appropriated 
from the grand treasury and a like sum pledged an- 
nually for the future in addition to the per capita tax. 
The contributions of the order toward the home have 
aggregated more than ten thousand dollars, in addition 
to special contributions for particular objects. Emma 
W. Port, Past Grand Matron, contributed one thou- 
sand dollars as the foundation for an endowment, to 
which the grand chapter added five hundred dollars 
in 1900. 

In 1896 the board of directors adopted the fol- 
lowing: 

"We appreciatingly and gratefully acknowledge the 
encouragement, aid and support, moral as well as ma- 
terial given by the Order of the Eastern Star, and re- 
cord our conviction that an order so distinguished and 



KANSAS. 227 

noted for its efforts in behalf of distressed, destitute, 
and helpless humanity, is entitled to the active sup- 
port as well as the commendation of all good masons. 

The home was dedicated by the grand lodge Sep- 
tember 10, 1896, and in his address on the occasion 
the Grand Master said: 

"We do not forget the powerful aid and influence of 
the Eastern Star and its chapters. Without their aid, 
and the support of the women of masonry we could 
boast neither of past success nor future hope. 

Rinda E. Chesney, Past Grand Matron, was the first 
matron of the home, and si iter Port is the vice-presi- 
dent of the board of directors. 

We are pleased to .present herewith an illustration 
of the home, and to quote the following description of 
it by a recent visitor : 

It was erected for Hon. R. E. Lawrence in 1888, 
when Wichita was in the zenith of her glory and 
money was no object, and cost $97,000. 

It is built of stone, three stories high with basement 
under the entire building, double walls and slate roof 
render it fire proof. The building is 90 by 90 feet. 
The reception room is 20 by 25, finished in oak with 
massive French plate mirrors, and parquet floor. 
Opening from this room, with folding doors, are the 
library, parlors, 
sitting room and 
Matron's room. 

It is one of the 
many places in 
this land that cost 
a fortune and sold 
for a song. The 
masons bought 
the place for only $21,000. Since buying it they have 
built an addition connecting the stable (which was a3 
fine as the house) with the house. The addition con- 
tains the dining room and kitchen, the original dining 
room being used as the Matron's room and the original 




228 KANSAS. 

kitchen as the children's play room. The stable has 
been fitted up for the old men, the former carriage 
room with "its beautiful mantel and grate being their 
reading room. 

The only drawback to this home is the lack of land 
as there is but fifteen acres. What they have is util- 
ized to the best advantage. They have about 500 fruit 
trees, all bearing and supplying plenty of fruit for the 
home and some to sell. 

The masons bought this home and Eastern Star sis- 
ters furnished it. The chapter that raised the largest 
amount of money was given the first choice of rooms, 
and the honor fell to Queen City Chapter, of Win- 
field, who raised $1,000 with which they furnished the 
parlor in handsome style. 

Alfred Whitman, Past Grand Patron, is known as 
the father of the home, and to him, more than to any 
other one brother, belongs the credit of its successful 
inauguration. 

In 1900 there were forty-one inmates, nineteen of 
whom were masons, three women, and nineteen chil- 
dren, and it was maintained at a cost of about one hun- 
dred and forty-five dollars per capita, James Snedden 
is Superintendent and Mary C. Snedden Past Most 
Worthy Grand Matron is Matron of the home. 

Of the eighty chapters organized in this state be- 
fore the organization of the grand chapter but eleven 
survive. Since that time a total of two hundred and 
thirty j one chapters has been enrolled, one hupadred 
and ninety-four of which are still on the list, although 
only one hundred and eighty-four reported in 1900, 
leaving forty-seven dead or dormant chapters. 

Decisions. — The petitions of a master mason and his 
wife, when presented at the same time, shall be bal- 
loted upon at one and the same ballot. 1876. Re- 
versed in 1886. The ballot may be spread upon any 
number of petitions at one time, and if clear, all shall 
be declared elected; if not clear, separate ballot shall 
be taken on each. 1899. 



KANSAS. 229 

The grand chapter recommends to its subordinates 
that only one person be initiated at the same time ex- 
cept it be a man and wife, and restricts and prohibits 
the initiation of more than four persons at the same 
time. 1880. 

Officers of subordinate chapters are required to 
commit their charges to memory within sixty days af- 
ter their installation. 1880. 

A Past Matron of another jurisdiction who- becomes 
a member of a subordinate chapter in Kansas^, is not 
thereby made a member of the grand chapter. 1886. 

~No person is entitled to admission as a member or 
visitor in any chapter in Kansas, except those who 
have been regularly initiated in some chapter work- 
ing under the jurisdiction of the General Grand Chap- 
ter. 1886. Rescinded in 1887. 

The square and compasses should be placed on the 
bible the same as on the Patron's jewel. 1886. 

According to ancient history it was due as much to 
the heroic conduct of Queen Esther, as to the great 
wisdom of King Solomon, that the light of freema- 
sonry is to-day shining broadcast on land and sea. 
1889. 

It is improper to pass between the star and dais dur- 
ing chapter sessions. This symbolizes that nothing 
should come between the executive officer and the law. 
1889. 

When robes are used the officers robed are the five 
points, each in the color they represent; the Conduc- 
tress and Associate Conductress in black, and the can- 
didate in white. Robes are used only during initia- 
tion. 1890. 

The Queen of the South and the Amaranth can not 
be adopted by a chapter. 1893. 

The female relatives of a deceased master mason 
unaffiliated at the time of his death are eligible to> the 
degrees. 1894. 

A chapter has a right to make an assessment on its 
members to pay necessary exp enses . 1898. 

Grand Matron.— 1876-1877, Mary A. Hepler; 
1878, Mary H. Buck; 1879, Lavonia J. Becker; 1881, 
Myra Mottram; 1882, Mary C. Sneddon; 1883, 



230 LOUISIANA.! 

Amelia C. Peters; 1884, Celestia A. Stevenson; 1885, 
Phebe P. Colton; 1886, Emma W. Port; 1887, Rinda 
E. Chesney; 1888, *Georgiana SeCoy; 1889, Lottie 
E. Young; 1890, L. A. Wiggs (Gatch) ; 1891, 
Eudora E. Hall; 1892, Carrie 0. Getty; 1893, Eliza- 
beth Magie; 1894, Lettie E. Trouslot; 1895, H. B. 
Earnsworth; 1896, Ellen A. Kenner; 1897, Bella 
Bennett; 1898, Libbie B. Towner; 1899, Eva 
Wheeler; 1900, Etta S. Main. 

Grand Patron. — 1876, *Harmon G. Reynolds; 
1877, *E. D. Hillyer; 1878, Rev. Daniel W. Coxe; 
1879, Willis Brown; 1881, J. Jay Bnck; 1882, 
*George A. Colton; 1883, *D. C. Young; 1884, 
Henry Parker; 1885, Julius R. Trouslot; 1886, J. 
Ira Brown; 1887, R. E. Stevenson; 1888, Z. T. Wal- 
rond; 1889, George W. Clark; 1890, William Julien; 
1891, Thos. K. McEarland; 1892, David C. Beatty; 
1893, Alfred Whitman; 1894, J. C. Postlethwaite ; 
1895, *J. A. Regnell; 1896, August Anderson ; 1897, 
Edd Hayes; 1898, Albert Sarbach; 1899, E. W. 
Poindexter; 1900, David Smyth. 

Grand Secretary. — 1876, *Laura Reynolds; 1877- 
1879, S. P. Tresslar; 1881, Rev. Thomas Burrows; 
1882-1886, Myra Mottram; 1887, Mary C. Snedden; 
1888, Myra Mottram; 1889-1890, Rinda E. Chesney; 
1891-1899, Myra Mottram; 1900, Delia Bennett. 

LOUISIANA. 

Rob Morris Chapter No. 1, New Orleans, was char- 
tered by the General Grand Chapter April 1, 1884, 
but became dormant. Rebecca No. 2, Welsh, was 
chartered June 3, 1890, and subsequently twelve other 
chapters were chartered, and "No. 1 was reorganized. 
At the convention to organize the grand chapter eight 
of the ten chapters that survived, were represented, 
the meeting being held in Alexandria, October 4, 

^Deceased. 



MAINE. 231 

1900. The per capita dues were fixed at twenty-five 
cents per -annum. 

Grand Matron. — Mary S. Herring. 

Grand Patron. — John S. Alfred. 

Grand Secretary. — Richard Lambert. 

MAINE. 

Brother Macoy sold a charter for a chapter in South 
Berwick, in May, 1870. The first chapter organized by 
the General Grand Chapter was Adah No. 1, at Bid- 
deforcl, April 3, 1888. The convention to organize the 
grand chapter was called by Golden Rod Chapter No. 
8, Rockland, and met in Rockland, August 24, 1892, 
when seven of the eleven chapters in the state were 
represented, and a constitution was adopted which 
made the Grand Matron the executive head of the 
grand chapter, and all Past Matrons and Past Patrons 
permanent members of the grand chapter, and pro- 
vided that in addition to the three principal officers a 
chapter of over fifty members should be entitled to one 
additional representative', and to one additional rep- 
resentative for each additional fifty members, but the 
additional representation was abolished in 1894, and 
in 1896 the past officers were deprived of individual 
votes and given one collective vote. The per capita 
dues were fixed at twenty-five cents per annum. 

In 1894 all Past Grand Matrons and Past Grand 
Patrons were voted past officer's jewels to cost six dol- 
lars each, and in 1896 all retiring Grand Matrons and 
Grand Patrons were voted jewels to cost fifteen dol- 
lars each. Provision was early made for the Grand 
Matron to officially visit each subordinate chapter an- 
nually, and in 1896 the state was divided into dis- 
tricts with a Deputy Grand Matron in each. Schools 
of instruction have been held in these districts in the 



232 MAINE. 

last two years, concerning which the: Grand Matron 
said in 1900: 

I shall be unable to express the benefit that I feel 
assured was given and received by those present. They 
were not only brought into closer touch with each 
other socially, but exchanged ideas, received new in- 
spirations and an increase of interest in the work. 

The receipts in 1900 were $1,575.31 ; disbursements 
$1,426.76; balance $1,299.34. Of the seventy-three 
chapters chartered in this state, all but two survive, 
and reported in 1900. 

Decisions. — It is the duty of a "Worthy Matron to 
install her successor. She may, however, delegate the 
authority to any one qualified. 1898. 

The jurisdiction of a chapter, which extends half 
way to the next chapter, is determined by the usual 
traveled route, and not by an air line. 1897. 

The only persons entitled to the grand honors are 
the Grand Matron, Grand Patron, and Past Grand 
Matrons and Past Grand Patrons in their own state. 
1898. 

Petitions may be balloted on collectively. 1898. 

A person without sight or otherwise bodily dis- 
abled is not eligible to receive the degrees. 1900. 

No children of any age should be allowed in open 
chapter. 1900. 

Grand Matron.— 1892, Ella H. Day; 1893, Annie 
L. Cobb; 1894-1895, Jennie M. Stewart; 1896, An- 
nie M. Eaton; 1897, Mna V. A. Talbot; 1898, Eliza 
B. Douglas; 1899, Sarah F. Morse; 1900, Belle P. 
Smiley. 

Grand Patron.— 1892, Dr. A. H. Burroughs; 1893, 
Hadley O. Hawes; 1894-1895, E. H. Burnham; 1896, 
Algeron M. Kock; 1897, Wilmot S. Ames; 1898, J. 
Putnam Stevens; 1899, Samuel L. Miller; 1900, Ben- 
jamin E. Hadley. 

Grand Secretary.— 1892-1900, Annette H. Hooper. 



MARYLAND. 233 

MARYLAND. 

The Grand Chapter of New York chartered Alpha 
Chapter No>. 1, at Baltimore, September 15, 1879, but 
the charter was surrendered and one taken from the 
General Grand Chapter, April 26, 1880. The conven- 
tion to organize the grand chapter was called by the 
deputy of the Most Worthy Grand Patron, L. Oabell 
Williamson, and met in Baltimore, December 23, 

1898, when seven of the nine chapters in the state 
were represented. Upon the question of organizing a 
grand chapter six chapters voted for and one against, 
and upon the announcement of the vote the represen- 
tatives of the dissenting chapter withdrew. The Grand 
Matron and Grand Patron elect each volunteered to 
advance the grand chapter $100 to pay its necessary 
expenses, which offers were accepted. The constitu- 
tion adopted made Past Matrons and Past Patrons per- 
manent members of the grand chapter; the Grand 
Matron, the executive head ; and fixed the per capita 
dues at twenty-five cents per annum. It also provided 
for two stated meetings each year after the pattern of 
the Grand Chapter of the District of Columbia, the 
annual in January and the second in June. A major- 
ity of the chapters in the state was made to constitute 
a quorum. At the first annual meeting, January 25, 

1899, the record shows five chapters represented and 
^.YG not represented, but, notwithstanding, the grand 
chapter proceeded with its business. The sisters ap- 
pointed to office from the unrepresented chapters sent 
declinations. At the June meeting in 1899 two of the 
dissenting chapters were represented. In 1899 a proc- 
lamation was issued declaring one chapter that had not 
come into the fold, Concordia No. 5, Baltimore, clan- 
destine; but in January, 1900, the chapter having re- 
considered its action, and submitted to the authority 
of the grand chapter, it was reinstated, and now peace 
and harmony prevail in "Maryland, my Maryland." 



234 MASSACHUSETTS. 

Decisio?is. — A Past Matron or Past Patron of an- 
other jurisdiction who affiliates with a chapter in this 
jurisdiction is entitled to a seat and vote in this grand 
chapter. 1899. 

Grand Matron.— 1899-1900, Margaret Mergen- 
hardt. 

Grand Patron.— 1899, "Wm. Lechlider; 1900, 
Harry B. Major. 

Grand Secretary.— 1899-1900, Kobert M. Coombs. 

MASSACHUSETTS. 

The first chapter, Harmony No. 1, was organized 
at Shelburne Palls, in March, 1869. A council to con- 
sider the expediency of forming a grand chapter was 
called by Stella Chapter 'No. 3, of Worcester, to meet 
in Worcester, October 23, 1876, at which six chapters 
were represented, and a call was issued for a conven- 
tion to organize a grand chapter, at Worcester, De- 
cember 11, 1876, when the grand chapter was organ- 
ized by delegates from five of the eight chapters or- 
ganized in the state. By the constitution adopted the 
Grand Patron was made the executive head of the 
body and he appointed all the appointive officers, in- 
cluding a Deputy Grand Patron, who was the second 
officer, there being no Associate Grand Patron, and 
the grand chapter consisted "of all present and past 
Matrons, Patrons, and Associate Matrons, and such 
other persons as the grand chapter shall elect," but this 
latter clause was stricken out in 1882. Dues were 
fixed at twenty-five cents per capita, but were reduced 
to fifteen cents in 1879. At the meeting for organ- 
ization 

Brother Lamb called attention to the imperfections 
of the ritual; its histories are too lengthy and untrue, 
its symbols double-tongued, and their teachings in- 
consistent; as a specimen of English composition it is 
unworthy of the order. 



MASSACHUSETTS. 235 

On his motion it was ordered that a committee of 
five be appointed to make a thorough revision of the 
ritual. The chairman of this committee, brother 
Lamb, reported in 1877 that he had made suggestions 
to the ritual committee of the General Grand Chapter 
as to the changes desired, and recommended that the 
grand chapter await the action of the general body. 
The grand chapter declared its sympathy with the 
General Grand Chapter, and elected brother Lamb as 
a representative to it. Respecting brother Lamb's ef- 
forts in co-operating with the ritual committee of the 
General Grand Chapter, the Grand Patron said in 
1877: 

I have been witness to the labor and ability he has 
given to the work, and the order is in no small degree 
indebted to him for what he has achieved. His ver- 
sion of the five histories, which have been used during 
the past six months in Stella Chapter has been sub- 
stantially accepted by the General Grand Chapter; 
also the funeral ceremonies which he had prepared. 

The grand chapter voted unanimously to acknowl- 
edge allegiance to the General Grand Chapter, and a 
special meeting of the grand chapter was held in 
Springfield, January 27, 1879, for the purpose of 
exemplifying the work according to> the new ritual. 

Fifteen persons, not past officers, were elected mem- 
bers of the grand chapter' in 1878. In 1880 the duties 
of the Grand Matron were -greatly enlarged, and in 
1894 she was made the executive head of the grand 
chapter. 

The grand chapter gave a reception breakfast to the 
Most Worthy Grand Matron and Right "Worthy 
Grand Secretary, at the Tremont house, Boston, Au- 
gust 21, 1890, which was largely attended by members 
of the order in the state. 

In 1892 regalia was adopted as follows: 

Worthy Matron, Worthy Patron, and Associate Ma- 



236 MASSACHUSETTS. 

tron, purple velvet collar with, star in five colors on 
each side, gold bullion fringe' on outside and gold 
braid on inside; Chaplain, white collar with silver 
fringe; point officers, sashes of appropriate colors 
trimmed with silver fringe; other officers, collars of 
five colors trimmed with gold or silver fringe. 

The charter of Beulah Chapter, Stoneham, having 
been arrested by the grand chapter in May, 1892, on 
account of internal dissensions, and the members of 
the same unanimously voting to surrender all its 
property to the grand chapter, a special meeting of the 
grand chapter was called in August to consider the 
matter of the revival of the chapter, but the grand 
chapter deferred action until its annual meeting, thus 
practically refusing to restore said property to a re- 
vived, or new chapter, to be organized in Stoneham, 
as recommended by the Grand Patron, but subse- 
quently a new chapter was organized there and was 
given the property of the defunct chapter. 

In 1892 the state was divided info districts and 
a Deputy Grand Matron appointed in each. The 
chapters contributed liberally toward the maintaining 
of the Eastern Star corner at the "World's Eair. In 
1894 the Grand Treasurer not having sufficient funds 
to pay the indebtedness of the grand chapter, the 
members present contributed a sufficient amount to 
make good the deficiency. This year sister Ewing was 
unanimously reelected Grand Matron, but declined to 
accept the office. 

Concerning the rendition of the vocal star for the 
first time in the state by Athenia Chapter, the Grand 
Patron said in 1896: 

~No one's expectations met with disappointment. 
"While no lovelier than the floral addenda perhaps, this 
work certainly is more impressive in its teachings, and 
it was most beautifully rendered. I commend both 
these ceremonies, and am in favor of the exemplifica- 
tion of one or both at least once a year. 




Thos. M. Lamb. 



MASSACHUSETTS. 237 

Relative to the meeting of the General Grand 
Chapter in Boston, the committee reported that the 
chapters in the state contributed $1,664.13. Head- 
quarters were established; a bureau of information 
maintained; a banquet given in Faneuil hall; a theatre 
party given at Castle Square Theatre; souvenir badges 
were given to members of the order registering at 
headquarters; and a souvenir jewel presented to each 
member of the General Grand Chapter. Twenty- 
three hundred members, representing four hundred 
and eight chapters, located in thirty-seven states, reg- 
istered during the week, and a balance of $84.90 was 
turned into the grand chapter treasury. 

In recent years it has been the practice to present 
past officer's jewels to the retiring Grand Matron and 
Grand Patron. 

Brother Seagrave is the oldest Grand Secretary in 
point of service as well as age, and his reports are mod- 
els of completeness', containing full particulars con- 
cerning each chapter, and a resume of the year's work, 
and are invaluable in the way of historical data. Lona 
L. Goodenough is one of the oldest Grand Treasurers 
in point of service, having served twenty-three years. 

In 1900 the grand chapter consisted of 21 grand 
officers, 17 past grand officers; 126 past officers; and 
a total membership of 293. 

Decisions. — The Grand Matron, Grand Patron, 
Associate Grand Matron, and Associate Grand Pa- 
tron constitute the council of the grand chapter. 1892. 

The Chaplain should always be called upon to say 
grace before a chapter banquet. 1894. 

Chapters are prohibited from presenting the floral 
addenda in the presence of persons not members of 
the order. 1895. 

Any chapter conferring the degrees upon a person 
from another jurisdiction without the consent of chap- 
ter in proper form must pay the sum of twenty-five 



238 MASSACHUSETTS. 

dollars to the chapter in whose jurisdiction such per- 
son belongs. 1895. (Om chapter has paid such a 
penalty.) 

Any chapter shall be fined five dollars for each rit- 
ual, and twenty-five dollars for each copy of the se- 
cret work reported as lost. 1895. The latter fine was 
reduced to ten dollars in 1 8 9 6 . (Several chapters have 
paid the fine for loss of rituals.) 

Persons residing in a town where there is no chap- 
ter can apply for the degrees at any chapter in the 
state. 1896." 

As the courts of Massachusetts do not recognize a 
western divorce, a, lady whose husband has procured 
a divorce in Chicago, and has married again, is still 
his legal wife, and eligible to our degrees if the hus- 
band is in good standing in a masonic lodge. 1897. 

It is the prerogative of the Matron to select the in- 
stalling officer. 1900. 

Grand Matron.— 1876-1879, M. E. Cook; 1879- 
1880, *Sarah M. Sisson; 1881-1882, *S. Ellen "Whit- 
comb; 1883, Mary O. Davis; 1884, Lucinda M. Ear- 
rar; 1885, Mary L. Gleason; 1886, *Eva J. Perry; 
1 8 87, Annie B. Huntress; 1888,Josie A. Crane; 1889; 
Anna E. Bullard; 1890, Anna M. Harrington; 1891- 
1892, Louise J. Provin; 1893, Hattie E. Ewing; 1894, 
Mary A. Stebbins; 1895, Carrie S. Eairbairn; 1896, 
Efiie M. Carson; 1897, Isadora Forbes; 1898, Lena 
W. Lamb; 1899, Isa E. Gallup; 1900, Carrie A. 
Cushing. 

Grand Patron. — 1876-1879, Daniel Seagrave; 
1879-1880, ^Thomas M. Lamb; 1881-1882, D. H. L. 
Gleason; 1883, ¥m. A. Earnsworth; 1884-1885, 
Charles C. Dyke; 1886, Joseph W. Hill; 1887, Gran- 
ville C. Eiske; 1888, K W. Farrar; 1889, Robert C. 
Huntress; 1890, Erank E. Shaw; 1891, Henry C. 
Savage; 1892, John P. Loring; 1893, Adams E. 
Brown; 1894, William A. Blossom; 1895, Warren M. 
King; 1896, AmosM. Parker; 1897, Erank A. Noyes; 

^'Deceased. 



MICHIGAN. 239 

1898, William W. Wallace; 1899, Henry Spavin; 
1900, Walter A. Atwood. 

Grand Secretary.— 1876-1879, *Thomas M. Lamb; 
1879, *Horaoe A. Richardson; 1880, H. A. Rawson; 
1881-1900, Daniel Seagrave. 

MICHIGAN. 

The Grand Lodge of Adoptive Masonry was organ- 
ized at Adrian, October 30, 1867, by sixty delegates 
from fifteen lodges, and different works of adoptive 
masonry were exemplified after which that of J. H. 
Tatem, with some changes, was adopted. The Grand 
Worthy President (equivalent to Grand Matron) was 
made the executive head of the grand body, with 
power to grant dispensations for the organization of 
new lodges. A committee was appointed to procure 
regalia for the grand officers, which it did at an ex- 
pense of $14:6.25. In 1868 a committee was ap- 
pointed on revision of ritual. Short opening and clos- 
ing prayers were adopted, and a badge for funeral 
occasions consisting of "a rosette made of black and 
white crepe, box plated and in alternate rows, the in- 
side one being white; to be worn on the left breast," 
but in 1869 "a bow and streamers of crepe attached to 
the star," was substituted, the star referred to being 
one which was adopted at this meeting as the regalia 
to be worn by members, it being a "star of the five 
colors, with tinsel star in the center." 

In 1869 a revised ritual was adopted, including a 
form for funeral ceremonies, which was a revision of 
that found in Adoptive Rite; provision was made for 
dividing the state into nine districts and to appoint a 
District Lecturer in each. In 1870 complaint was 
received from Robert Macoy that the grand lodge had 
"appropriated his ritual and burial service, in whole 

'"Deceased. 



240 MICHIGAN. 

or in part, without his permission/' and the commit- 
tee in the matter reported that they had 

Reviewed all the correspondence within our con- 
trol, and from the knowledge obtained from this and 
other sources, together with a careful examination of 
the late work of brother Macoy, date of copyright, 
publication, etc., your committee consider that he has 
no cause for complaint, with the exception, perhaps of 
the adoption, or use of the funeral service; while we 
have not the means of knowing that it is his property, 
yet, inasmuch as our worthy brother objects to its use 
at the grave of a deceased sister in Michigan we would 
recommend that it be stricken from our report, and 
that we rely, in the future, on our own talents for the 
adoption of a funeral service. Your committee con- 
clude that the committee last year who adopted said 
service, and submitted it for your approval, not only 
wronged brother Macoy, but have thereby induced 
this grand body to take action upon a matter entirely 
beyond its control. 

In 1871 another funeral service, prepared by Past 
President H. E. Rehklaw, was adopted. In 1876 a 
committee was appointed to publish the ritual asi re- 
vised, which discharged the duty, giving what is 
known in this history as the Michigan Ritual. 

In 1877 "brother Willis B. Engte, Grand Patron 
of the Order of the Eastern Star in the state of In- 
diana, was invited to attend the sessions of this grand 
body," he being the first visitor ever admitted to its 
meetings who was not a member of a lodge in Mich- 
igan. He was subsequently invited to address the 
grand lodge in regard to the General Grand Chapter. 
A communication from the officers of that body was 
received, and three delegates were elected to attend its 
next meeting, which they did, and in 1878 the grand 
lodge "resolved that we acknowledge the jurisdiction 
of the General Grand Chapter of the Order of the 
Eastern Star, and conform our work to its ritual," and 



MICHIGAN. 241 

a committee was appointed to make the necessary re- 
vision of the constitution and laws, which reported 
the following year, and the transformation was com- 
pleted. 

The order in Michigan, by cheerfully giving up its 
old work, which had many points of beauty and ap- 
propriateness not embodied in the General Grand 
Chapter ritual, and relinquishing its form of organiza- 
tion which antedated that of the chapter form by at 
least a year, and its grand lodge organization being 
nearly three years older than the oldest grand chap- 
ter, for the sake of union and uniformity, certainly 
demonstrated its. title to the prosperity that has 
crowned its later years. 

There had been fifty lodges formed in the state up 
to this time, but twenty-seven of them had forfeited 
their charters. 

In 1881 the following was adopted: 

Wheeeas, the time has come in the temperance 
work when every person and society ought to- take 
right grounds, and show their true colors everywhere ; 
threfore 

Resolved, that we believe in and will practice total 
abstinence froui all that will intoxicate, and will use 
our most earnest endeavors to totally abolish all drink- 
ing customs, and suppress the liquor traffic by the use 
of all moral and legal measures practicable. 

The provision that "no person shall be eligible for 
the office of Matron or Associate Matron who has not 
served at least one term upon one of the five points 
of the star, ' ' was repealed in 1 8 8 2 . ' 'Brother C onover 
having presented all the subordinate chapters repre- 
sented in 1882 and 1883 with a beautiful cabinet 
photograph of his daugnter 'the adopted daughter of 
the Grand Chapter of the state of Michigan,' sister 
Louise. Olin moved that each chapter receiving the 
photograph have the same framed and hung in the 



242 MICHIGAN. 

chapter room. Motion prevailed." And the "daugh- 
ter" was presented a silver cup by members of the 
grand chapter. 

In 1886 Rob Morris sent the following sentiment, 
which was adopted : 

The Eastern Star: The Star of Bethlehem once 
guided three wise men to the place where the infant 
Jesus lay. But the Eastern Star is this hour guiding 
fifty thousand wise women to the highest plane of 
earthly merit and usefulness. May the rays of light 
we cherish continue to guide us through middle life, 
through old age, and even through the darkness of the 
tomb to those green meadows by the crystal river, 
where the tree of life grows, and where faith is lost in 
sight, and hope ends in fruition. 

In 1890 Rosana Rose, Past Grand Matron, deliv- 
ered a brief historical address which was printed in the 
proceedings. At this meeting the Vocal Star was ren- 
dered for the first time, by the Past Grand Matrons, at 
whose request it was written. A committee of three 
brothers was appointed to confer with the grand lodge 
as to "the matter of adopting a uniform sign known 
to all masons and Eastern Star members," but the fol- 
lowing year it reported that the General Grand Chap- 
ter only should take the matter under consideration. 
The same year it was ordered that "the mileage of all 
Past Grand Matrons and Past Grand Patrons cease at 
the end of one year after the expiration of their term 
of office," but this was subsequently repealed. All 
Past Matrons and Past Patrons were made members 
of the grand chapter in 1889, but they were dropped 
out in 1892. 

In the printed proceedings of 1S91 the poem "In 
mason's hall with earnest eyes upon the chart before 
me," was published and credited to Rev. Willis D. 
Engle, which was, of course an error of the Grand 
Secretary, as the poem was written long years before 



MICHIGAN. 243 

I saw the rays of the Eastern Star, by H. T. Stanton. 
The error arose from the fact that I had had it printed, 
and had given it wide free circulation, even before 
knowing the name of its author. 

In 1894 the grand chapter purchased a set of grand 
officers' jewels at a cost of two hundred dollars, made 
"of sterling silver, triple gold plated, upper bar with 
state coat of arms in center, and the words Grand 
Chapter in gold, in field of dark blue enamel; the 
lower bar with Michigan in letters of gold in field of 
white enamel; the stars all enameled in the five col- 
ors; emblems of office and point emblems in gold." 

They were pronounced to be the most elegant jew T - 
els used by any society in this country. 

The masons of Michigan established a masonic 
home, and, in 1890, in response to an appeal of the 
Grand Matron, many of the chapters assisted in pro- 
moting a state masonic fair for its benefit which netted 
seven thousand dollars, and from that time forward 
the chapters have been active promoters of the work, 
contributing, in 1895 nearlv four hundred dollars, and 
the grand chapter now shares in its government, be- 
ing represented on the board of control by three mem- 
bers, and in 1899 it was ordered that "one day of the 
year be designated and known as Masonic Home Day, 
and that the various chapters use their best endeavors 
on that day to raise funds by entertainments, socials, 
or otherwise, to aid in the support of that grand insti- 
tution." As a result of this $382 were contributed in 
1900, and the grand chapter appropriated $150. 

The grand chapter in 1897 instructed all chapters 
to provide their delegates with badges containing the 
name, number, and location of the chapter; and in 
1898 it was ordered "that, as the grand seal of our 
state was designed by the first Grand Master of ma- 
sons of Michigan, Governor Lewis Cass, it shall here- 



244 MICHIGAN. 

after embellish the cover of the proceedings of this 
grand chapter." 

A reference to the statistical tables will show what 
a wonderful development there has been in this grand 
chapter, beginning soon after it changed its form of 
organization, it having increased over ten fold in mem- 
bership in the ten years following 1885, and about 
doubled its numbers from 1895 to 1900. Perhaps no 
grand chapter is composed of better material, has had 
less friction, or is in better condition than this; and 
certainly no grand chapter has its proceedings more 
creditably printed than those issued by sister Matte- 
son. In 1899 the committee on charters said "Nearly 
ten per cent of our present membership, and more than 
ten per cent of the chapters, now in existence in this 
state, have been brought into light of the new ma- 
sonry the past year." 

In 1900 $500 were appropriated toward the enter- 
tainment of the General Grand Chapter in 1901. 
There were in attendance at the grand chapter 17 
grand officers; 24 past grand officers and 717 repre^ 
sentatives of 239 chapters. The financial statement 
showed receipts, including balance $10,191.87; dis- 
bursements, $5,558.89; balance $4,632.89. 

It has not been possible to present in this work, as 
we would have liked to have done, the portraits of all 
the distinguished sisters and brothers who' have, by 
their labors, laid the order under indebtedness, but it 
is with pleasure that the portrait of the' oldest living 
Past Grand Matron is inserted, that of Mrs.E, L. Pen- 
dleton, who served the Grand Lodge of Adoptive Ma- 
sonry as Worthy Grand President in 1869 and 1870, 
and who, during all the years since, has been an active 
worker in the order, rarely missing a meeting of the 
grand chapter. 

Decisions. — A member who becomes an infidel 
should not retain membership in a chapter. 1886. 




E. Iy. Pendleton, 



MICHIGAN. 245 

Each chapter annually elects three proxies to rep- 
resent it in the grand chapter, should any or all of the 
three principal officers be unable to attend. 

Members of a chapter can not form themselves le- 
gally into another society in the name of the chapter 
for any purpose whatever, without the chapter con- 
curring in their aims, and receiving report of such 
work, the same as from a standing committee. 1897. 

A person who can neither read nor write is eligible 
to membership. 1900. 

Grand Matron.— 1867-1868, *Martha G. Lindsly; 
1869-1870, E. L. Pendleton; 1871-1872, D. O. Purin- 
ton; 1873-1874, Mary Snyder; 1875-1876, Eliza J. 
Barber; 1877-1878, Sarah L. Marsh; 1879, Nellie S. 
Corey; 1880, *Kosana Kose; 1881, H. L. Anthony; 
1882, *D. L. Merrill; 1883, Mary A. Watrous; 1884- 
1885, M. C. Griswold; 1886, M. M. Parsons; 1887- 
1888, A. A. Matteson; 1889-1890, O. L. Davidson; 
1891, Mary D. Stone; 1892, Ida J. Martin; 1893- 
1894, Louese A. Turck; 1895-1896, Lida A. Pratt; 
1897-1898, Ida E. Joslin; 1899-1900, Helen E. C. 
Balmer. 

Grand Patron.— 1867, *David Bovee; 1868, C. 
Jacobs; 1869, J. H. Tatem; 1870, *D. B. Purinton; 
1871-1872, A. P. Secord; 1873, Allen Church; 1874, 
Travers Phillips; 1875, Micajah Douglass; 1876, 
*¥m. S. Burrows; 1877, *J. S. Cross; 1878, Benja- 
min B. Hose; 1879, Wm. H. Severance; 1880, Allen 
C. Mauley; 1881, George Yf. Matteson; 1882, Travers 
Phillips; 1883, *Loren Day; 1884-1885, Jeff. S. Con- 
over; 1886-1888, *Chauneey Waterbury; 1889-1890, 
John J. Decker; 1891, H. H. Hinds; 1892, Charles A. 
Cornell; 1893-1894, Allen S. Wright; 1895, Charles 
A. Conover; 1896, Fred H. Hosford; 1897-1898, 
William E. King; 1899-1900, A. C. Northrup. 

Grand Secretary.— 1867, Ira C. Haight; 1868, O. 
M. Eddy; 1869-1870, E. H. Crofut; 1871, J. D. Van- 

^Deceased. 



246 MINNESOTA. 

Duyn; 1872, W. H. Bice; 1873-1881, *D. B. Purin- 
ton; 1882-1885, Dan W. Sawyer; 1886-1892, Travers 
Phillips; 1893-1900, A. A. Matteson. 

MINNESOTA. 

The first chapter was Crystal Lake No*. 1, organized 
at Hokak, in October, 1869. The convention to organ- 
ize the grand chapter was called by Leonard Lewis, 
deputy of the Most Worthy Grand Patron, and met in 
Minneapolis, June 27, 1878, when five of the eleven 
chapters that had been organized in the state were rep- 
resented by seventeen delegates. Of these chapters but 
three now survive. The constitution adopted made 
Past Matrons and Past Patrons members of the grand 
chapter, clothed the Grand Matron with executive 
powers, and fixed the per capita dues at fifteen cents. 
Allegiance to the General Grand Chapter was ac- 
knowledged. 

The grand chapter failed to meet in 1880. In 1882 
the state was divided into three districts, with a Dep- 
uty Grand Patron in each. 

In 1883 the Grand Patron in his; address criticised 
the work as exemplified in Minneapolis Chapter No. 
9, which was an attempt to dramatize the work, falling 
far below the Mosaic, and the jurisprudence commit- 
tee reported recommending 

That so much of \he Grand Patron's address as 
refers to the peculiar exemplification of the work in 
Minneapolis Chapter No. 9 be not entered on the 
grand chapter records, — from our knowledge, we 
deem it not as an ignoring, nor any infraction of the 
recognized ritual of the order, but simply as an en- 
largement, or, perhaps, an enriching of the work ; ren- 
dering it more attractive and impressive. "While we 
do not recommend its adoption by other chapters, we 
see nothing inappropriate in this practice, if any 
chapter desires to adopt it. 

This report was adopted. In 1884, at Hastings, 

*Deceased. „ 



MINNESOTA. 247 

while a report of a special committee disapproving 
the work of Minneapolis Chapter No 1 . 9 was under 
consideration, and before officers had been elected, or 
other business disposed of "without a thought as to 
the seriousness of the result/' a motion to adjourn was 
adopted, and the grand chapter meeting ended. The 
constitution provided that the grand chapter should 
designate the place for its next meeting, which was 
not done. A special meeting was called by the Grand 
Matron for May 13, 1885, at Farmington. Although 
the constitution provided "No new chapter shall be 
formed in any town or city where one: or more chap- 
ters exist, except upon the recommendation of the 
chapters already organized in said town or city," the 
Grand Matron decided that one could be organized in 
Minneapolis without the recommendation of No. 9, 
and the same day that the decision was rendered a 
chapter was organized therein. Four days after ren- 
dering this decision she suspended No. 9 on account 
of the manner in which it rendered the work, and for- 
bade all intercourse with its members as such. The 
Grand Secretary being a member of No. 9, the Grand 
Matron decided that she "could not perform the duties 
of any office," and she was directed to turn over the 
property of the grand chapter in her possession, which 
she refused to do 1 . At the called meeting at Farming- 
ton a corps of officers was elected. 

On August 11, 1895, the Most Worthy Grand Pa- 
tron issued an edict that 

The Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star of 
the state of Minnesota is no longer a legally qualified 
body to administer the affairs of the order in that juris- 
diction, and that its existence as a part of the General 
Grand Chapter is hereby terminated, and I do, in be- 
half of the General Grand Chapter assume jurisdic- 
tion over all lawful chapters and members of the order 
in that state, and it is hereby ordered that all such 



248 MINNESOTA. 

chapters shall report to the Right Worthy Grand Sec- 
retary of the General Grand Chapter, and in all 
things conform to and obey the constitution. 

At the meeting of the grand chapter in October, 

1885, the charter of ~No. 9 was arrested. The Grand 
Matron and Grand Patron ably defended their actions 
in the matter, and the grand chapter approved the 
same. A second grand chapter was organized May 12, 

1886. For an account of the actions of the General 
Grand Chapter in this matter refer to the sketch of 
that body, and for the history of the second grand 
chapter see subsequent pages. 

The grand chapter continued its work, five chapters 
being represented in 1886; six in 1887; eight in 1888 
and 1889; ten in 1890; eight in 1891 and 1892; and 
seven in 1893. Various efforts were made to harmon- 
ize the conflicting elements, but without success. In 
1889 representatives of chapters working under grand 
chapter !No. 2 applied for admission, but, the grand 
chapter refusing to admit those from three chapters, 
all declined to enter, but later the grand chapter de- 
clared it would admit the excepted chapters "provided 
our Grand Patron shall be fully satisfied of their 
sincerity." In its last report, 1893, eight subordinates 
reported two hundred and eighty members. The loy- 
alty and devotion to their organization of the mem- 
bers of this grand chapter during the long years of 
tiial are worthy of commendation. 

At a special meeting held May 9, 1894, at which 
nine chapters were represented the following was 
unanimously adopted on May 10th: 

Resolved, that for the purpose of promoting the 
interests of the Order of the Eastern Star in this state 
and uniting the two organizations in one harmonious 
grand chapter, we, the Grand Chapter of the Order of 
the Eastern Star of the state of Minnesota known as 
Xo. 1, in convention assembled, do agree and declare 



MINNESOTA. 249 

that if tlie organization known as the Grand Chapter 
of the Order of the Eastern Star No. 2 of the state 
of Minnesota will join in the organization of a new 
grand chapter to be known as the Grand Chapter of 
the Order of the Eastern Star of the state of Min- 
nesota, and such grand chapter shall be organized; 
then, and in that case, the said grand chapters known 
as No. 1 and No. 2 respectively, aforesaid, shall cease 
to exist. 

Resolved, further, that for the purpose of expedit- 
ing the organization of said new grand chapter, the 
said grand chapter No. 2 shall adopt resolutions the 
same in principle, and for the objects aforesaid, and 
present the same forthwith to the said grand chapter 
No. 1 now in session in Cataract lodge room, upon the 
interchange of this and the resolutions aforesaid by 
the respective grand chapters, they shall each appoint 
a committee consisting of three members to select a 
time and place of meeting for the purpose of organ- 
izing said new grand chapter, which place shall be 
either the city of St. Paul, or the city of Minneapolis, 
and the time not later than May 10, 1894, at two 
o'clock in the afternoon. 

Resolved, that the delegates in attendance upon the 
said grand chapters, and all present and past grand 
officers entitled to vote therein, shall be admitted as 
delegates and representatives in the organization and 
business of the said new grand chapter, and shall have 
all the rights, privileges, and immunities possessed by 
them in their respective grand chapters. 

After conferring with the committee from No. 2 
this action was rescinded, and the following adopted: 

Whereas, it is desirable that the two grand chap- 
ters Order of the Eastern Star existing in the state of 
Minnesota be united. 

Resolved, that the grand chapter now in session in 
St. Paul is invited to meet this grand chapter at the 
masonic temple in St. Paul at three o'clock this day 
to perfect such union, to be known as the Grand Chap- 
ter, Order of the Eastern Star of the state of Minne- 
sota, which organization shall be upon this basis: The 
preservation of the Eastern Star status of all officers 



250 MINNESOTA. 

and members of subordinate chapters. Also that all 
charters of all subordinate chapters be preserved, sub- 
ject to revisal where in conflict in names or num- 
bers. 

Resolved, that the seal of the grand chapter shall 
contain the inscription; Grand Chapter of the Order 
of the Eastern Star, Minnesota. 1878-1886. United 
May 10, 1894. Also the signet. 

Thus was union at last consummated. 

MINNESOTA No. 2. 

Of the seventeen chapters organized before the dis- 
ruption of the grand chapter, six had died, six re- 
mained loyal to !N"o. 1, &vq joined No. 2, and one di- 
vided into two chapters, one of them remaining with 
No. 1, and the other joining No. 2. The convention 
to organize grand chapter No. 2 was called by S. I. 
Wing, deputy of the Most Worthy Grand Patron, and 
met May 12, 1886, when six chapters were repre- 
sented, the organization completed, and the state di- 
vided into five districts with a Deputy Grand Patron 
in each. 

The grand chapter adopted the chapter of sorrow, 
by Addie C. S. Engle, in 1889, and set apart July 
31st, the day of Bob Morris's death, "as the day for 
holding such chapter of sorrow throughout this juris- 
diction." 

A special meeting was held January 14, 1890, when 
a committee was appointed to issue a statement relative 
to the controversy in the order in the state, which 
was prepared by J. E. Walker. At the annual meet- 
ing the dramatized work was exemplified before the 
grand chapter by Minneapolis Chapter No. 9. 

During 1891 five chapters were organized, and one 
came over from No. 1. An effort was made to unite 
the two grand chapters, and came near being success- 
ful, and paved the way for the final consummation 
of the union, the vote of the subordinate chapters on 
the acceptance of the plan proposed being unanimous 



MINNESOTA. 251 

as to tlie subordinates of No. 2, but in No. l's subordi- 
nates the vote stood four for and six against. 

In 1892 ten chapters were organized and two came 
over from No. 1; while in 1893 thirteen chapters were 
organized. By the report of 1893 there were forty- 
nine chapters with a membership of 2,665, to which 
were added fifteen chapters in 1894, making the totals 
sixty-four chapters, and, approximately 3,215 mem- 
bers under No. 2 at time of the union. 

A committee was appointed in 1891 to confer with 
the grand lodge in relation to the establishment of 
a masonic home, and the grand lodge declared its sym- 
pathy with the object, but nothing further was done 
in the matter until 1900. 

Past grand officer's jewels were presented to the 
retiring Grand Matron and Grand Patron in 1894. 

MINNESOTA— UNITED. 

May 10, 1894, upon the arrival of the members of 
No. 1, a joint meeting was held over which Mary C. 
Snedden, Most Worthy Grand Matron, presided, sup- 
ported by two corps of officers, sixty chapters being 
represented, and it was 

Resolved, by the two grand chapters now jointly as- 
sembled, that the proposed union is hereby declared 
to be effected, and the grand chapter resulting from 
said union is declared to be the Grand Chapter Order 
of the Eastern Star of the state of Minnesota. 

The Grand Matron stated that she had imposed 
upon the retiring Grand Patron, brother Gearhart, 
the duty of acting as Worthy Grand Marshal, for the 
reason that to him, more than to any one else, the 
credit of restoring peace to the order in Minnesota 
was due, and she felt that he should have the satis- 
faction of proclaiming the installation of the officers 
of the united grand chapter. 

J. D. Markham was re-elected Grand Patron in 



252 MINNESOTA. 

1895, brut declined for business reasons. Sophia M. 
Hodges, being about to remove to California, the 
grand chapter voted unanimously to present her a 
Past Grand Matron's jewel, and past officers' jewels 
were subsequently presented Louise Lyon Johnson, 
Charles D. Boyce, and J. D. Markham, and in 1897 
and 1898, the grand chapter voted to present such 
jewels to all retiring Grand Matrons and Grand Pa- 
trons in future, and one hundred dollars were pre- 
sented to Isaac W. Blake, the second Grand Patron, 
in lieu of a jewel. 

In 1897 the Grand Matron divided the state into 
fifteen districts, and held conventions in each, which 
were quit© successful, and the grand chapter voted to 
continue the system. A code of etiquette, customs, 
and rules for the guidance of officers and subordinate 
chapters was also adopted. 

The Grand Matron in 1898 incorporated in her ad- 
dress a statement of the Grand Lecturer regarding the 
manner of exemplifying the work in Minneapolis 
Chapter !Nb. 9, and the grand chapter. 

Resolved, that any subordinate chapter within the 
jurisdiction of the grand chapter which may have 
heretofore adopted or used in the conferring of the 
degrees any so called "dramatic work," or work dif- 
ferent from, or not in conformity with the work pro- 
mulgated by the General Grand Chapter, or adopted 
by this grand chapter, be, and such subordinate chap- 
ter is hereby ordered and directed to make its work 
conform to said ritual. 

During 1899 the Grand Matron suspended the char- 
ter of Minneapolis Chapter Nk>. 9 for gross infraction 
of the laws of the order, and her action was approved, 
and she was elected for the third time, but declined, 
and the grand chapter, "in the interest of harmony 
and with the earnest hope that the experience of the 
past may prove a salutary lesson in the future," re- 



MINNESOTA. 253 

stored the charter. The Grand Matron was presented a 
beautiful slumber robe, the center* of which was a 
square of white satin with a silk flag in each corner, 
on which was painted the signet; also her monogram, 
and the name of Ruth Chapter, which presented it. A 
grand chapter of sorrow was held "which made an 
impression on the listeners that will not soon be for- 
gotten." 

In 1900 twenty-one schools for instruction were 
inaugurated in as many districts, most of which the 
Grand Matron attended in person. The vocal star was 
exemplified before the grand chapter. The matter of 
co-operating in the erection of a masonic home, to- 
ward which the grand lodge had accumulated some 
thirty thousand dollars, was decided upon, and a ten 
cent per capita tax was levied, and a. committee ap- 
pointed to raise and manage funds for that object. 

Decisions. — In the absence of the first three of- 
ficers a subordinate chapter may be opened by a Past 
Matron or Past Patron. No. 1, 1887. 

Printed ballots should be rejected by tellers. 1895. 

'No member has the right to appeal frorn the de- 
cision of the presiding officer of the grand chapter. 
1896. 

Honorary membership in a chapter carries with it 
no rights or privileges in the; chapter where conferred, 
and imposes no duties. 1897. 

The degrees can not be conferred on a blind, deaf, 
or otherwise physically disabled person. 1897. A 
brother mason in good standing, whatever may be his 
physical condition, is eligible to the degrees. 1898. 

It is the privilege of the officers to select their 
installing officer. 1897. 

No person is allowed to remain in chapter room 
during session with hat or bonnet on. 1897. 

No chapter shall suspend or expel a member for 
nonpayment of dues, but members two years in ar- 
rears for dues may be stricken from the roll. 1895. 

Charges must be preferred against a sister who has 
taken out a saloon license. 1898. 



254 MINNESOTA. 

The bible should be opened at the second chapter of 
St. Matthew while the Chapter is in session. 1899. 

Every chapter shall have a committee of three mem- 
bers of known ability to communicate to members 
the secret work, and it is made mandatory that all 
newly initiated members be thoroughly instructed in 
the obligation, and be impressed with the necessity of 
faithful conformity to its requirements. 1899. 

MINNESOTA No. 1. 

Grand Matron. — 1878, *Sarah B. Armstrong; 
1879-1881, M. Louise Lewis; 1882, A. A. Palmer; 
1883-1885, Helen A. Valentine; 1886, ^Charlotte A. 
Wescott; 1887, Emma S. Peck; 1888, Mary A. 
Cooper; 1889-1890, ^Victoria C. Little; 1891-1893., 
Elora E. Moore. 

Grand Patron— 1878, Charles Griswold; 1879- 

1880, *Isaac W. Blake; 1881, *John H. Noble; 1882, 
Leonard Lewis; 1883, Charles J. StaufT; 1884-1885, 
Jonathan Smith; 1886-1887, C. A. Chapman; 1888, 
Leonard D. Valentine; 1889-1891, Charles L. Davis; 
1892-1893, D. B. Schoneld. 

Grand Secretary. — 1878-1880, *01ive C. Davis; 

1881, John A. Davis; 1882, M. Louise Lewis; 1883, 
L. A. Pratt; 1884-1893, M. Louise Lewis. 

MINNESOTA No. 2. 

Grand Matron. — 1889, Eoseneth Mayham; 1887- 
1888, Sophia M. Hodges; 1889-1891, Louise E. 
Jacoby; 1892-1893, Mary C. Taylor. 

Grand Patron.— 1886, Charles H. Strobeck; 1887- 
1888, *Solomon I. Wing; 1889, Charles L. Mayham; 
1890-1891, Andrew P. Swanstrom; 1892-1893, Na- 
thaniel A. Gearhart. 

Grand Secretary. — 1886, George Cotton; 1887, 
A. Plomteaux; 1888, Rozeneth Mayham; 1889-1893, 
Ida M. Wing (Brown). 

^Deceased. 



Mississippi. 255 

minnessota— united. 

Grand Matron.— 1894, Mary C. Taylor; 1895, Lou- 
ise L. Johnson; 1896, Mary L. McGindley; 1897- 
1898, Flora A. Pattee; 1899-1900, Adelaide E. Bis- 
sell. 

Grand Patron. — 1894, James D. Markham; 1895, 
Charles D. Boyce; 1896, Thomas H. Warren; 1897, 
Wm. D. Pattern; 1898, P. II. White; 1899-1900, Kev. 
A. G. Pinkham. 

Grand Secretary.— 1894-1895, Ida M. Wing 
(Brown); 1896-1898, Eleanor I. Young; 1899-1900, 
Mary C. Taylor. 

MISSISSIPPI. 

The first chapter was organized at Starkville in 
April, 1870. The grand chapter was organized at 
Bienzi, December 15, 1870, by representatives of five 
of the seven chapters that had been organized in the 
state. It was the practice to hold a public grand chap- 
ter of sorrow at each meeting, which was the chief 
event of the session, and on one of these occasions the 
local commandery of Knights Templar acted as an es- 
cort to the grand chapter. That of 1875 may be men- 
tioned as a sample of all. After the grand chapter of 
sorrow was opened, obituaries were read, and floral 
emblems presented, including a beautiful white cross 
from Sir John Curtis, of Philadelphia, and a crown 
and scepter from Queen Esther Chapter, Indianapolis. 
Concerning the first, P. M. Savery, in presenting it 
said : 

In thrilling language, yet unnttered, it reminds us 
that though our loved ones sleep in death, yet the Son 
of God has on the cross made atonement for sin, tri- 
umphed over death, and sits at the right hand of 
the Father as a mediator and intercessor for all those 
who have faith in him. It speaks of hope in the eter- 
nal hereafter, and lights up the valley and shadow of 
death with a glorious effulgence. 



256 Mississippi. 

The crown and scepter was accompanied by the fol- 
lowing : 

This floral tribute, a testimonial of love and sym- 
pathy, is sent to' the Grand. Chapter of Mississippi in 
manifestation of our desire to heartily co-operate with 
all true members of our order wheresoever dispersed, 
and with the hope that those who have' gone from their 
earthly ranks to> join the company of them who wait 
for the reappearance of him at whose first coming the 
bright and glorious star of Bethlehem guided the' wise 
men to the place 1 of his nativity. It is our 1 hope that all 
may so 1 follow that glory beaming star, that at last they 
may reach the heavenly Jerusalem, and lay their 
hands upon his scepter, and be crowned by him with a 
crown more enduring than flowers. 

John L. Power was Grand Patron during the en- 
tire existence of the grand chapter. In his address in 
1873 he said: 

It is well known to us, and it may as well be known 
to others, that the first idea of a state grand chapter 
originated in this state. Chapters of the order have 
for many years existed in the Eastern and Western 
states, deriving their authority and charters from a 
sort of self-constituted Supreme Grand Council lo- 
cated in the East, that place of all light masonically. 
It was from this supreme authority your Grand Pa- 
tron received his commission on May 26, 1870. On 
the fifteenth of December following chapters, num- 
bered 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7, held a convocation at Rienzi, 
and organized the second (he was in error, he should 
have said the third,) grand chapter on this continent. 
On the third of the previous month a grand chapter 
of the order was formed in New York, but the corre- 
spondence of this office for 1870 attests that the breth- 
ren and sisters of the Empire state acted upon sugges- 
tions from this jurisdiction in organizing their grand 

ST. 



In 1874, after the grand chapter had been closed, 
the local chapter was opened and "Kosciusko Com- 
mandery, K. T., (all of whom were members of the 



Mississippi. 257 

Adoptive Kite) entered in full dress uniform, when 
the Grand Matron presented the commandery a large 
and elegant bible; after which the Sir Knights es- 
corted the chapter members to their banquet ^hall, 
where all enjoyed the festivities." 

Ten of the forty-one chapters on the roll were rep- 
resented at the seventh and last meeting in 1877. 
Eighteen chapters reported 510 members. The Grand 
Patron said: 

I regret that I cannot report prosperity in the order. 
A few chapters report great zeal and harmony, regular 
meetings, and general attendance, but fully one-half 
of the chapters are virtually dead. 

The Grand Patron granted a dispensation for the 
admission of a young lady lacking a few months of 
being sixteen but "about grown." 

In 1875 it was 

Resolved, that all Grand Masters and Past Grand 
Masters of theGrand Lodge of Masons, Most Excellent 
Grand High Priest and Past Most Excellent Grand 
High Priests of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter, Most 
Illustrious Grand Master and Past Most Excellent 
Grand Masters of Grand Council of Royal and Select 
Masters, and Right Eminent Grand Commander and 
Past Right Eminent Grand Commanders of Grand 
Commandery Knights Templar of Mississippi, resident 
within the jurisdiction of this grand chapter, and who 
obtained possession of the light of the adoptive rite 
within the body of a regular chartered chapter of the 
order, working under authority of this grand chapter, 
are hereby declared to be ex- officio honorary members 
of this grand chapter. 

The Supreme Council was pledged the hearty co-op- 
eration of the grand chapter in 1873. In 1875 recog- 
nition was withdrawn from the Supreme Grand Chap- 
ter and resolutions adopted looking to the formation of 
a legitimate general grand body. In 1877 the Grand 
Patron being somewhat intimidated by the onslaught 



258 Mississippi. 

made by the Grand Patron of Now York on the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter, raised the question of repudiating 
that body, but the grand chapter declared "that it 
would be highly inexpedient in the present languish- 
ing condition of the order in this state, that any addi- 
tional burdens be imposed. This grand chapter recog- 
nizes the regular formation of the General Grand 
Chapter, and cheerfully surrenders to same the juris- 
diction of all territory beyond the limits of our own 
state, over which this grand body has assumed 
control." 

The latter clause referring to the two chapters in 
Florida, one of which had been chartered by brother 
Macoy, and the other being chartered by the Grand 
Chapter of Mississippi, April 22, 1876. (See Florida.) 

In all there were forty-one chapters organized, in 
this state under the authority of the grand chapter, 
seventeen of which reported to the grand chapter in 
1877, when ten chapters were represented. 

In 1881 the Grand Patron wrote to the Eight 
Worthy Grand Secretary: 

Grand Chapter of the Eastern Star, 1 

Office of the Grand Worthy Patron, > 
Jackson, Miss., June 11, 1881. J 

Dear Bro. Engle — The Grand Chapter Eastern 
Star of this state has had no meeting since 1877. The 
yellow fever in 1878 prevented a meeting that year; 
and the apprehension of fever prevented a meeting in 
1879. Other causes prevented a meeting last year 
and I have called no meeting this year. Our Grand 
Worthy Matron is in a low state of health, and has 
been for more than a year, so that if I had the time 
to work up a meeting, I could not have! her co-opera- 
tion. Notwithstanding all this a few chapters continue 
to meet, and occasional inquiries are made as to an 
annual meeting. But so many duties are demanding 
my time, I can not give to the Eastern Star the atten- 
tion it deserves and should have to prosper. I have 



Missouri. 259 

repeatedly tried to retire from the office of Grand Pa- 
tron, but each time unanimously re-elected. Under all 
the circumstances I have thought it best to> take the 
responsibility of transferring the order in this state 
to the fostering care of the General Grand Chapter. 
You have our last proceedings, and can correspond 
with the chapters. All I ask is to be relieved of the 
honors and labors incident to the office of Grand Pa- 
tron. Fraternally, 

J. L. Power. 

This was followed by earnest efforts on the part of 
the Right "Worthy Grand Secretary to secure a meet- 
ing of the grand chapter, but without success, and on 
April 23, 1885, the General Grand Chapter assumed 
jurisdiction over Mississippi, all the chapters having 
at that time ceased to exist, and on April 30, 1895, a 
charter was issued to "Winnie Davis Chapter ~No. 1, 
Brookhaven, and since that time five other chapters 
have been organized, none of them being located in a 
town where a chapter formerly existed. Of these 
chapters three reported in 1900 a membership of one 
hundred and forty-five. 

Grand Matron. — 1870, M. I. Hunter; 1871, Laura 
L. Burton; 1872, C. M. Barton; 1873-1877, Annie T. 
Clark. 

Grand Patron.— 1870-1877, John L. Power. 

Grand Secretary. — 1870-1872, Sue H. Brevard; 
1873-1876, Mattie Cromwell; 1877, Sallie Leftvis. 

MISSOUEI. 

The first chapter organized was said by brother Ma- 
coy to have been at Graham, in October, 1869, but 
Queen Esther at Hannibal, organized in December, 
1871, bore the number one, while the one at Graham 
was numbered two. The convention to organize the 
grand chapter was called by Thomas C. Beady, Pro- 
visional Grand Patron, and met in masonic hall, St. 
Louis, October 13, 1875, the credential report show- 



260 MISSOURI. 

ing sixty-five representatives present from forty-five 
of the one hundred and forty-four chapters which had 
been organized, principally by brother Harmon G. 
Reynolds, and one Provisional Grand Patron, and two 
Deputy Grand Patrons. The constitution adopted 
was unique, providing that 

The first triennial meeting shall be held on the 
Wednesday after the second Tuesday in October, 
1878, commencing at seven o'clock in the evening, 
and triennial meetings shall be held every three years 
thereafter, on the same day, and at the same hour, in 
the city of St. Louis. 

The grand chapter shall consist of a Grand Patron, 
Deputy Grand Patron, Grand Matron, Deputy Grand 
Matron, Associate Grand Matron, Deputy Associate 
Grand Matron, Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary, 
Grand Conductress, Deputy Grand Conductress, As- 
sociate Grand Conductress, Deputy Associate Grand 
Conductress, Hve Grand Chaplains, Grand Marshal, 
fi.Ye Assistant Grand Marshals, Grand Lecturer, Grand 
Adah, three Assistant Grand Adahs, Grand Ruth, 
three Assistant Grand Ruths, Grand Esther, three As- 
sistant Grand Esthers, Grand Martha, three Assistant 
Grand Marthas, Grand Electa, three Assistant Grand 
Electas, Grand Warder, Assistant Grand Warder, 
Grand Sentinel, and thirty District Deputy Grand Pa- 
trons. 

A total of seventy-seven grand officers, seven of 
whom were elective, and seventy appointive, and the 
usual representatives of chapters, and all Past Patrons 
and Past Matrons. A board of commissioners, con- 
sisting of seven officers, was clothed with the au- 
thority of the grand chapter, except legislative, during 
the recess of the grand chapter, and was to meet an- 
nually in the intervening years. Reports had been 
secured from sixty-two chapters, fifty-five of which 
had advanced three dollars each as dues. In 1876 
the Grand Patron said: 

On examining the published proceedings he found 



MISSOURI. 261 

many tilings that needed alteration and amendment. 
Under the circumstances he thought best not to try 
to do much until the grand chapter had taken further 
action, and thinking the necessities of the case de- 
manded it, he had taken the responsibility of ordering 
a session of the grand chapter. 

Twenty-two chapters were represented by thirty-six 
members. The communication from the Grand Chap- 
ter of Indiana in regard to the convention to organize 
a general grand body was read and "brother Willis D. 
Engle, of Indiana, was introduced and explained what 
was desired by the Grand Chapter of Indiana," after 
which delegates were elected to the convention, and 
subsequently allegiance was acknowledged to the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter. The constitution was thoroughly 
revised, and made to conform more nearly to those of 
other grand chapters. The state was divided into< dis- 
tricts, and a Deputy Grand Patron or Deputy Grand 
Matron appointed for each. 

In the correspondence report of 1877, in answering 
brother Macoy's attacks on the General Grand Chap- 
ter in his report on correspondence to the Grand Chap- 
ter of New York, John R. Parson said : 

Perhaps we ought to be thankful that he did not de- 
clare our grand chapter illegal as he did New Jersey, 
but as our Missouri chapters paid the representatives 
of the so-called Supreme Chapter over three; thousand 
dollars for their charters, we presume we! are legal. 

Andrew G. Mackey was a visitor to the grand chap- 
ter in 1879, and delivered an interesting address. In 

1880 the Grand Matron arrested the charters of one 
hundred chapters for failure to report, ninety-eight of 
them holding Macoy charters. 

Up to 1881 the grand chapter met uniformly in St. 
Louis, but since that time it has been migratory. Prom 

1881 to 1891 the number of chapters represented va- 
ried from eight to twenty-three, but in later years 
the number has reached seventy-six. 



262 Missouri. 

In his address in 1889 the Grand Patron said: 

I wrote Past Patron S. L. C. Rhodes that unless he 
sent me a petition for a chapter he had better send a 
synopsis of his good deeds (if he had been guilty of 
any) to the grand chapter committee on necrology, 
that they might prepare suitable resolutions on his 
sudden death and his untimely taking off. He at once 
notified me where I could get a petition, and he still 
lives. 

I sent word to Captain Tygard (who is president of 
a National bank), that unless he sent me an applica- 
tion for a charter, I would get the: Comptroller to send, 
an inspector to examine his bank every thirty days. 
He immediately sent me a draft for $25.00 and sev- 
enty names. 

I notified Judge Givan that if he did not take steps 
to organize a chapter, I would come to> Harrisonville 
and board a couple of months with him while I worked 
the matter up. He telegraphed me that the matter 
would be ready on my arrival, and I would not have 
to stay. 

The law having been that a lady need be but sixteen 
years of age to be eligible to the degrees, the Grand 
Patron said: 

While we believe Missouri girls are smarter at 
sixteen than girls in other parts of the country are at 
eighteen, and know that our young ladies at sixteen 
have more good sense than our young men at twenty- 
one, still as all other states require ladies to be eighteen 
years of age to be eligible to the degrees, I recommend 
that, as a matter of courtesy to other jurisdictions, we 
make our law conform to theirs. 

And the law was amended in accordance with his 
recommendation, 

In all recent years the Grand Patron has addressed 
letters to masonic lodges located where no chapter is 
working, setting forth the advantages of the order, 
which have resulted in the organization of many chap- 
ters. 

In 1894 a Past Grand Matron's jewel was presented 



MISSOURI. 



263 



to the efficient Grand Secretary; in 1897 it was or- 
dered that each Grand Matron should be presented 
one on her retiring from office; and in 1899 the grand 
chapter ordered a similar token of remembrance for 
all Past Grand Matrons, which tokens were presented 
to them at the meeting in 1900. 

The grand chapter has been favored with two 
unique honorary members, Jean Loraine Flanders, 
who is named as the grand daughter of the grand 




chapter, and Eliza Edgar, who was denominated the 
great grandmother of the grand chapter, and who died 
December 18, 1899. 

In 1897 the Grand Matron inaugurated a system of 
district schools of instruction. In 1900 fifty dollars 
were appropriated by the grand chapter for the benefit 
of members of the order suffering from the Galveston 
flood. 

In 1878 a committee was appointed "to mature and 
report a plan for the gradual accumulation of a fund 



264 Missouri. 

for the purpose of establishing a widow's and orphan's 
asylum." The matter was in abeyance until 1888, 
when the masons having started a movement to estab- 
lish a home, the chapters began contributing sums an- 
nually, varying from $17.50 to $390, aggregating in 
eight years some two thousand dollars, and the grand 
chapter appropriating six hundred dollars. In 1894 
it was proposed to build at the borne an Eastern Star 
chapel, and the same was completed in 1897 at a cost 
of $3,533, and the chapel was dedicated by the Grand 
Master, October 21, 1897, in the presence of the grand 
chapter, the members of it taking prominent parts in 
the program. In the eastern end of the chapel is a large 
Eastern Star window donated by the children of the 
home. Besides, they contributed $339.95, the money 
being earned by their voices. On the right of this 
window is a picture of Christ blessing little children, 
donated by Ascalon Commandery, K. T.; on the left 
one of the Repose in Egypt from Molah Temple, Mys- 
tic Shrine. Other windows show Martha, Ruth, Es- 
ther, the Ascension, the Guardian Angel, the open 
Bible, and the Burning Bush. The members in Mis- 
souri are justly proud of their chapel, and have held 
their annual meeting in it. 

In 1900 the following was adopted: 

The grand chapter does hereby agree to give $3,000 
toward building the old people's building. It further 
agrees to contribute annually an amount equal to fif- 
teen cents per member toward the maintenance of the 
masonic home; provided that the board of directors of 
the home, or whoever has the authority, will admit the 
members and children of such members of the order, 
who are not now entitled to equal privileges of the 
home with those of the masonic fraternity of Missouri. 
Provided, further, that the board of directors of the 
masonic home of Missouri will so amend their laws as 
to admit two lady directors from the Grand Chapter, 
Order of the Eastern Star of Missouri. * * * 



Missouri. 265 

When the charity fund shall be deemed sufficient, and 
the necessity arises, the fund or such portion of it as 
may be necessary, shall be used to organize and main- 
tain an old ladies' home. 

Each subordinate chapter was requested to raise 
funds for the object. At this juncture sister E". M. 
Botkin, of Joplin, said she would start the fund with 
a nest-egg of twenty-five dollars, and in less than an 
hour contributions were made by chapters and indi- 
viduals aggregating $1,465.54, and a committee was 
appointed to confer with the directors of the home in 
regard to the matter. It has been the practice: of the 
grand chapter to appropriate annually fifty or seventy- 
five dollars for Christmas presents for the aged mem- 
bers of the home, who now number twenty-one old 
ladies and twenty old gentlemen; there are also fifty- 
one girls and twenty-seven boys in the home. 

Of the 144 Maeoy chapters organized in this state 
but ten survive: There has been a total of 382 chap- 
ters organized, 198 of Which are still on the roll 
of 1900, only 160 of which made reports, making 134 
Macoy chapters dead, and 88 others dead or not 
reporting. 

Decisions. — Chapters can not unite in procession 
with any other than masonic bodies. 1889. 

Past Grand Matrons and Past Grand Patrons, Past 
Matrons and Past Patrons of other jurisdictions who 
have properly authenticated dimits stating their past 
honors, and have affiliated with some subordinate 
chapter in this grand jurisdiction shall be entitled to 
vote and take part in the proceedings of this grand 
chapter. 1888.' 

Electioneering for officers, either by personal solici- 
tation, printed ballots or otherwise, is prohibited in 
this grand chapter, and in all subordinate chapters in 
this grand jurisdiction. 1890. 

A lady who can not write her name is not eligible 
to the degrees, as by our law, every applicant for the 
degrees is required to sign his or her name. 1892. 



266 MONTANA. 

Culms of barley should not be used in giving the 
sign of Euth. 1897. 

Grand Matron— 1875-1876, Mattie A. Yost; 1877, 
Elmira Foley; 1878, Louisa J. Moore; 1879, Mary J. 
Wash; 1880, Sallie E. Dillon; 1881, Elizabeth A. 
Rhea; 1882, Amanda M. Wyatt; 1883, Sarah M. Sny- 
der; 1884, Mary E. Lynds; 1885, *Sarah 0. Hibbard; 
1886, Annie F. Goodrich; 1887, GoraB. McPherson; 
1888, Flora M. Clarkson; 1889, Hettie M. Warner; 
1890, Jane Miller; 1891, Mary E. Wakefield; 1892, 
Sarah E. McCully; 1893, M. Sue Black; 1894, Sue 
M. Tuttle; 1895, Genevieve E. Wyatt; 1896, Rosa L. 
Harris; 1897, Mattie Barney; 1898, Mary S. Kussell; 
1899, Kate Murphy; 1900, Ella J. Flanders. 

Grand Patron.— 1875-1876, John D. Yincil; 1877, 
* James E. Cadle; 1878, Wm. E. Stubblefield; 1879, 
R, F. Dunn; 1880, *Milton H. Wash; 1881, *John L. 
Beatherage; 1882, J. H. Frame; 1883, Wm. Mc- 
Cully; 1884, Jack P. Richardson; 1885, Benjamin 
Lynds; 1886, H. M. Pettit, M. D.; 1887, S. L. C. 
Rhodes; 1888-1889, John R. Parson; 1890, Noah M. 
Givan; 1891, J. J. McElwee, M. D.; 1892, Dr. Reu- 
ben Barney; 1893, C. Hanson; 1894, W. H. Wake- 
field; 1895, Thomas P. Kelly; 1896, Joseph S. 
Browne; 1897, E. H. Phelps; 1898, Charles L. Mc- 
Donald; 1899, John Broder; 1900, W. F. Kuhn, 
M. D. 

Grand Secretary. — 1875-1887, John R. Parson; 
1888-1900, Sallie E. Dillon. 

MONTANA. 
The first chapter, Miriam No. 1, was chartered by 
the General Grand Chapter, December 29, 1880, and 
was organized January 10, 1881. Four other chap- 
ters had been organized before the assembling of the 
convention to organize the grand chapter, in Living- 
ston, September 24, 1890, at which all were repre- 

*Deceased. 



MONTANA. 267 

sented, and the organization was completed on Sep- 
tember 25. The constitution of the Grand Chapter 
of Michigan was adopted with necessary changes; the 
Grand Matron was made the executive head of the 
body; Past Matrons and Past Patrons were made 
members; and the per capita dues fixed at fifty cents 
per annum. In 1892 the Grand Matron was given 
exclusive authority to- grant dispensations for and or- 
ganize new chapters. In 1897 the chapters were au- 
thorized to elect proxies to serve if the three principal 
officers could not attend the meetings of the grand 
chapter. The chapters were requested to donate a 
sum equal to ten cents per capita toward a fund to pay 
the expenses of the Grand Matron in making official 
visits, in 1898. 

Of the twenty-eight chapters organized in this state 
twenty-seven are still active. 

Miriam Chapter ~No. 1, of Helena, took the initiat- 
ive, so far as the order is concerned, in 1898, toward 
the establishment of a masonic home in Montana, is- 
suing an appeal to the several chapters, which resulted 
in the raising of $325.05, which was turned over to 
the grand lodge charity fund, and in 1900 the com- 
mittee on the project reported that $959.80 had been 
contributed, which was ordered turned over to the 
grand lodge fund, and a custodian was appointed to re- 
ceive, turn over, and report all amounts that may be 
raised in the future. 

Decisions. — This grand chapter does not recognize 
as the law of the order and binding upon it, the dec- 
laration of the General Grand Chapter at its ninth 
triennial session, "That all printed matter between the 
covers of the ritual shall be considered as law, and 
binding upon all grand chapters." 

Grand Matron. — 1890, Edna L. Hedges; 1891, Liz- 
zie O. Marsh; 1892, Sue G. Anderson; 1893, Marian 
L. Wood; 1894, Alice A. Stedman; 1895, Sarah J. 



268 NEBRASKA. 

Tracy; 1896, Ada M. Aiken; 1897, Lucy Kailsback; 
1898, Amelia Hindson; 1899, Emily Frizzell; 1900, 
Jennie Bishop. 

Grand Patron.— 1890, C. E. Lancaster; 1891, Jacob 
M. Powers; 1892, Cornelius Hedges; 1893, C. W. 
Pomeroy; 1894, Isaac W. Baker; 1895, George T. 
Slack; 1896, William "Wood; 1897, Kobert M. Vick- 
ers; 1898, S. C. Kenyon; 1899, Samuel M. Nye; 
1'JOO, H. S. Hepner. 

Grand Secretary.— 1890-1893, *Emma D. Fretz; 
1894-1900, Elva Boardman. 

NEBRASKA. 

Brother Macoy said that the first chapter organ- 
ized was at Brownsville^ in January, 1872, but Queen 
Esther, at Nebraska City, bore the number, one, while 
Adah, at Brownsville, was numbered two. The con- 
vention to organize the grand chapter met in the par- 
lors of the Commercial Hotel, Lincoln, at eight 
o'clock on the evening of June 22, 1875, nine of the 
twelve chapters in the state being represented by nine^ 
teen delegates. Of these twelve chapters only two have 
had a continued existence since, Vesta, No. 6, Omaha, 
and Electa, ~No. 8, Lincoln. Past Matrons and Past 
Patrons were made members of the grand chapter 
without the right to vote, but they were given that 
right in 1892. The grand chapter was to meet at the 
same time and place as the grand lodge, but this reg- 
ulation was repealed in 1888. The Grand Patron 
was made the executive head of the grand body, and 
continued as such until 1888,, when the Grand Ma- 
tron was clothed with the executive powers. 

In 1876 delegates were elected to the convention 
that organized the General Grand Chapter, but none 
of them attended. That organization was recognized 
in 1877, and dues paid to it. 



*Deceased. 



NEBKASKA. 269 

The grand chapter held no meetings in 1882 and 
1883, and the proceedings for 1879, 1880, 1881 and 
1884 have not been published. Concerning these 
times the Grand Patron said in 1885: 

The history of our order in this jurisdiction does not 
clamor even for synoptical recapitulation. There is 
in it little that is calculated to fill the heart with sat- 
isfaction or encouragement. Though a brief, it has 
proven a checkered history. The past year did not 
differ widely from the years preceding it. A few 
willing and faithful hearts and hands there are, and 
have been, or our beautiful star would have long 
since, so far as Nebraska is concerned, have been lost 
in the dark, dense night clouds. 

In 1889 provision was made for dividing the state 
into districts, and a sister was appointed to bear greet- 
ings to the grand lodge then in session. In 1892 a 
grand chapter of sorrow was held, and this has been 
the practice annually since 1894. The chapters in 
the state contributed to the relief of cyclone sufferers 
at Nelson, to the extent of eighty-four dollars, in 
1892. The grand chapter contributed as an ornament 
to the state building at the "World's Fair a design six 
feet in diameter, the center being an immense star 
made entirely of glass, representing the grand chap- 
ter; the center pentagon in crimson, lettered in gold 
leaf, and about the inscription was wrought a golden 
chain; each point of the star was of the appropriate 
color, with proper emblems painted thereon; sur- 
rounding this were the stars furnished by the subor- 
dinate chapters. 

In 1894 Mt. Hebron Commandery, Knights Temp- 
lar, acted as an escort to Dawson Chapter at the fu- 
neral of a sister. In 1895 the grand chapter adopted 
a public service prepared by Helen H. Stires, for the 
celebration of Christmas. District conventions were 
inaugurated in 1896. In 1897 a brother addressed 



270 NEBRASKA. 

the grand chapter upon masonry, and "quoted ex- 
tensively from masonic authorities to show that women 
were, a few centuries ago, eligible to all the degrees 
of ancient masonry." A testimonial was given Rev. 
A. G. Pinkkam, Past Grand Patron, upon his remov- 
ing to Minnesota, where he became the Grand Patron 
of that state. Also one to Edwin Davis, who served 
thirteen years as Grand Treasurer. 

A creditable display for the order was made at the 
Trans-Mississippi Exposition, the order in Nebraska 
contributing for that purpose $345.25, and the order 
in other states $190. 

A committee was appointed in 1887 to confer with 
the grand lodge in relation to establishing a masonic 
home, and the next year the following was adopted : 

Whereas, we understand that a proposition is to be 
made to the most worshipful grand lodge of masons 
of Nebraska at its present session looking to the estab- 
lishment of a widows' and orphans' home within the 
jurisdiction of said grand lodge, therefore 

Resolved, that this grand chapter highly approves 
of this project, and pledge ourselves to render all the 
assistance in our power to further the purpose, and 
maintain the noble objects sought for in this grand 
achievement of the true mission of masonry. 

The grand chapter subscribed for $100 stock in 
the proposed home in 1889, and requested the chap- 
ters to contribute toward the same object, which they 
did to the extent of $44, but the effort seems to have 
failed. 

In 1898 the subject of such a charity was again 
brought up, and twenty-five dollars were set aside to- 
ward a fund for a home for the widows and orphans of 
members of the order in Nebraska, and since then 
subordinate chapters have contributed some eighty 
dollars for the same purpose. 

Decisions. — If a chapter expects the public to as- 



NEBRASKA. 271 

sist in paying for its regalia, it would be proper to 
wear it at a public festival. 1889. 

The Grand Matron and Grand Patron are ineligible 
to the offices of Matron and Patron of a subordinate 
chapter. 1892. 

Funds of a chapter can not be alienated for a pur- 
pose in no way connected with the order or with ma- 
sonry. 1893." 

A petition can not be acted upon unless the 
brother on the committee signs the report. 1893. 

Saloon keepers are not eligible to the degrees, but 
their female relatives may be. IS 94. 

The Queen of the South and the Amaranth de-^ 
grees can not be given in a chapter in this jurisdic- 
tion. 1897. 

The cabalistic word can not properly be considered 
a pass. 1900. 

A chapter can not unite in funeral or memorial 
services with other than masonic bodies, unless it 
takes charge of the services. 1900. 

Grand Matron. — 1875, Mary E. Imhoff ; 1876. Jen- 
nie L. Jackson: 1877-1878, Phebe Pales; 1879, Mag- 
gie Meagher: 1880. H. C. Smith: 1881, Sarah M. 
Clark: 1884, Mary E. Mount: 1885, -Elizabeth Dawis; 
1886; C. Thompson: 1887. Mary A. Webster; 1888, 
A. J. Snider: 1889-1900, "Emilie J. Scott: 1891- 
1892, Addie M. Billings: 1893-189-1, A. E. Mussel- 
man: 1895, A. TThitmarsh (Whitney): 1896-1897, 
Helen H. Stires: 1898, Eva M. Baldwin: 1899, 
Maude M. Greene: 1900, Louise Mathews. 

Grand Patron.— 1875-1876, J. X. "Wise: 1S77, 
Robert W. Pumas: 1878-1879, David E. Hume; 
1880, Edwin Davis: 1881, Marshall Smith: 1884=- 
1885, *Rev. Henry A. Guild: 1886, E. E. Winning: 
1887, James B. Brunei- : 1888-1889. Wm X. Xason; 
1890, Thomas Batterton; 1891, TTm. X. Xason; 
1892, G. W. Kern: 1893-1891. H. A. Turton: 1895- 
1896, Bev. A. G. Pinkham; 1897-1898, David B. 

^Deceased. 



272 



NEW HAMPSHIRE. 



Howard; 1899, Lorenzo D. Woodruff; 1900, Kobert 
E. Evans. 

Grand Secretary.— 1875-1876, W. I. Baker; 1877- 
1883, Sarah C. Baker; 1884-1885, Louise M. Mer- 
rill; 1886-1895, *Rev. Henry A. Guild; 1896-1898, 
Eleanor Bailey, M. D.; 1899, Elfleda E. Wright; 
1900, Anna C. Peterson. 

NEW HAMPSHIRE. 

Brother Macoy chartered four chapters in this 
state of which Olivet Branch, at Lancaster, surrendered 
its charter in exchange for one from the General 
Grand Chapter, May 28, 1888, Adah, Candia, pursu- 
ing the same course in 1892. The convention to or- 
ganize the grand chapter met at Lancaster, May 12, 
1891, all of the six chapters being represented. The 
constitution adopted made Past Matrons and Past Pa- 
trons members of the grand chapter, and the Grand 
Matron its executive head, and fixed the per capita 
dues at twenty-five cents per annum. Chapters were 
given one representative each in addition to the three 
principal officers, in 1895, and the Grand Matron was 
instructed to visit annually every chapter, either per- 
sonally or by deputy, at the expense of the grand 
chapter. The work has been exemplified at almost 

every meeting of the 
grand chapter, and the 
floral work was rendered 
in 1 8 9 9 . All except one of 
the chapters that have had 
a place on the grand chap- 
ter roll are still active. The 
gross receipts to 1900 in- 
clusive have been $4,- 
635.91, and the disbursements $3,402.96. 

Decisions. — A chapter can not hold a public instal- 

*Deceased. 




NEW JERSEY. 273 

lation without a special dispensation from the Grand 
Matron. 1900. 

Grand Matron.— 1891, Mary D. M. Quimby; 
1892, M. Josephine Home; 1893, Lucy Spooner; 
1894, Jane D. Davis; 1895, Sadie A. Pike; 1896, 
Nancy J. Moody; 1897, Ella K. Patten; 1898, Aimer 
A. Piper; 1899, E. C. "Whitteniore; 1900, Ella M. 
Stone. 

Grand Patron.— 1891, Dr. Frank Spooner; 1892, 
James H. Conner; 1893, George H. Everett; 1894, 
Fred P. Knox; 1895, Wm. R. Bartlett; 1896, Lewis 
P. Wilson; 1897, Charles M. Freeman; 1898, Charles 
K. Kimball; 1899, Wm. P. Prescott; 1900, George 
E. Bates. 

Grand Secretary.— 1891-1897, J. Sullivan Chase; 
1898-1900, Bessie P. Morris. 

NEW JERSEY. 

The first chapter organized was at Keyport, March 
25, 1869. The grand chapter was organized at New- 
ark, July 18, 1870, by representatives of three chap- 
ters, all there were in. the state, and the Grand Secre- 
tary was instructed to notify brothers Robert Macoy 
and Edward O. Jenkins of the fact. Of these three 
chapters but one, Eureka Eo. 2, Elizabeth/port, sur- 
vives. At an adjourned meeting, October 20, a con- 
stitution, etc., was adopted which made the Grand 
Matron the presiding officer, and all Past Matrons 
and Past Patrons members of the grand chapter. Sub- 
sequent to the organization of the grand chapter 
brother Maeoy issued charters for the organization of 
two additional chapters. At the meeting in June, 
1871, a communication was received from brother 
Macoy stating 

From what has transpired among the members of 
the order in Xew Jersev toward me, I must decline 



274 NEW JERSEY. 

further participation in the affairs of the order in that 
state. 

The same year a committee was appointed to pre- 
pare a ritual wnieh reported the striking out of the 
word "Supreme" in the obligation. Brother Macoy 
offered to supply ten blank charters for twenty-five 
dollars, and rituals at two dollars and two dollars and 
a half each. In 1873 brother Macoy was present as 
a visitor as Grand Patron of New York, and congrat- 
ulated the grand chapter on its success, and the man- 
ner in which its business was transacted. The Grand 
Matron made mention of the organization of a su- 
preme grand body in June, 1873. 

In 1874 a communication was received from the 
Grand Chapter of New York recognizing the Grand 
Chapter of New Jersey. Until 1875 the grand chap- 
ter had no star officers, but they were then added. The 
Patron's lecture, as established by the Grand Chap- 
ter of New York was adopted in 1875, and in 1876 
the new (Macoy) ritual was adopted, and the Grand 
Patron defended the legality of the organization of 
the grand chapter which had been assailed by brother 
Macoy, as chairman of the committee on correspond- 
ence of the Grand Chapter of New York. 

The grand chapter was represented at the organiza- 
tion of the General Grand Chapter, and at its meeting 
in 1878, and adopted its ritual. In 1880 it withdrew 
its acknowledgment of and allegiance to the general 
body, but, a year later this action was rescinded, and 
the grand chapter retained its connection with the 
General Grand Chapter until 1887, when it again 
"permanently" withdrew its allegiance, and appointed 
a committee to revise and prepare a ritual ; at the next 
annual meeting the movor of the resolution, who was 
then Grand Patron, said the withdrawal was an illegal 
act, committed inadvertently, and asked that the 



NEW JERSEY. 



275 



Grand Matron declare the same null and void, but 
upon this recommendation the grand chapter indefi- 
nitely postponed action. The next year the same 
brother took diametrically opposite grounds, quoting 
from letters twelve years old to show that Rob Mor- 
ris never gave his sanction to the General Grand 
Chapter, utterly oblivious of his acts during the last 
eight years of his life, and the grand chapter affirmed 




its act of withdrawal, and appointed a new committee 
on ritual. In 1890 the committee on ritual reported 
in favor of adopting the Macoy ritual, but the report 
was not concurred in, and it was ordered that the 
General Grand Chapter ritual be continued in use, 
and a committee was appointed to translate it into 
the German language. In 1893 the ritual question 
again coming up, action thereon was postponed for 
two years, but one year later this action was rescinded, 
and the revised General Grand Chapter ritual adopted. 
In 1897 a committee was appointed to visit the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter at its Washington meeting in 
1898, which reported in 1899, and action on the ques- 
tion was laid over for one year, and in 1900 it was 
postponed for another year. 



276 NEW JERSEY. 

In 1883 the office of Associate Grand Matron was 
created, but it was abolished in 1890. In 1891 it was 
ordered that members hailing from Minnesota be- 
longing to chapters, other than those' subordinate to 
grand chapter !No. 1, must not be received. The 
twenty-fifth anniversary was celebrated by a banquet 
at noon, September 19, 1894. At that meeting the 
charter fee was reduced from twenty dollars; to ten 
dollars-. 

In 1896 a special tax of five cents per capita was 
levied to be continued annually until jewels should be 
obtained for all Past Grand Matrons, but this action 
was rescinded the following year. In 1895 the grand 
chapter ordered "that black balls instead of cubes be 
used in balloting for candidates," and reaffirmed it in 
1896, but in 1897 it was ordered "that black cubes 
shall be the proper negative ballot, and that black 
balls shall no longer be used." 

In 1900 fifty dollars 1 were appropriated for the re- 
lief of the sufferers from the flood at Galveston. At 
an evening reception given by the chapters of Pasaic 
county an address was delivered by Past Grand Mas- 
ter of masons, Joseph W. Congdon, which was pub- 
lished in the proceedings. 

This grand chapiter has perhaps had more cases of 
"grievances" in proportion to the number of chap- 
ters and members than that of any other jurisdiction. 
This, together with her vacillating course on many 
subjects, and the fact that chapters are not allowed 
to meet in masonic halls, will account for the slow 
growth of the order in the state, but we are glad to 
note that in the last six years a greater increase has 
been made in both chapters and membership, than in 
all the previous years of its existence. Twenty-three 
chapters (have been organized, twenty of which still 
survive, Susie A. Stewart, Past Grand Matron, is the 



NEW JERSEY. 277 

oldest Grand Treasurer in point of service in the order, 
she having served for twenty-five consecutive years. 
Mary Martin, Past Grand Matron, has been Grand 
Secretary sixteen years. 

Grand Matron. — 1870, * Janet B. Maynard; 1871, 
*Sarah Wentworth; 1872, *Anna M. Mayhew; 1873- 
1874, Susie A.Stewart; 1875, *Eliza D. Tilden; 1876, 
Mary C. Doibbs; 1877, *Helen VanBlaroom; 1878, 
"Mary J. Bunnell; 1879, *Selina Kennard; 1880, 
*Ann E. Graul; 1881, Mary Martin; 1882-1883 
*Lucinda Smith; 1884, Amanda M. Morgan; 
1885-1886, Augusta M. Ladd; 1887, ^Caroline 
Karlsberg; 1888, Ann Garrabrant; 1889, Ellen 
W. Cole; 1890, Ida L. Stagg; 1891, Min- 
nie A. Pugh; 1892, Catherine Beyea; 1893-1894, 
Minnie Heller; 1895, Kate M. Esch; 1896, Frances 
L. Boone; 1897, Jennie "Winkler; 1898, Emma Sel- 
now; 1899, Carrie Rosenstein; 1900, Georgia Roc. 

Grand Patron.— 1870, ^George 1ST. Potter; 1871, 
-Joseph E. Haynes; 1872, *E. Maynard; 1873-1876, 
John M. Mayhew; 1877, *Wm. C. Hammond; 
1878, *George W. Knight; 1879, *W. V. W. Vree- 
land; 1880, *Jahn K Bunnell; 1881, H. B. Good- 
ridge; 1882-1883, "W. C. Brown; 1884, C. J. Van- 
Horn; 1885-1886, Wm. E. Boone; 1887-1888, *Lewis 
F. Lyne; 1889, James Martin; 1890, Wm. A. Bern- 
bridge; 1891, Albert W. Stagg; 1892-1893, John W. 
Reid; 1894, Albert Sault; 1895-1896, Frederick Sel- 
now; 1897-1898, Robert J. Aljoe; 1899, Edwin B. 
Young; 1900, Benjamin F. Davis. 

Grand Secretary. — 1870-1871, Martha E. Johnson; 
1872, John M. Mayhew; 1873-1877, *Anna M. May- 
hew; 1878, *Ann E. Graul; 1879-1880, Mary Mar- 
tin; 1881, *Anna M. Mayhew; 1882-1883, *Mary J. 
Bunnell; 1884, *Ann E. Graul; 1885, Mary Martin; 
1886, Ellen W. Cole; 1887-1900, Mary Martin. 

*Deceased. 



278 NEW YORK. 

NEW YOEK. 

The first chapter organized in this state was Alpha 
No, 1, New York city, December 28, 1868. The 
grand chapter was organized in New York city, No- 
vember 30, 1870, by representatives' of fourteen of 
the twenty chapters, five of them being by proxies 
who were not members of the chapters they repre- 
sented; a constitution was adopted which made the 
Grand Patron the executive head, and all Past Ma- 
trons and Past Patrons members of the grand chap- 
ter; 'and required that proxies must be members of 
the chapters they represented; and that "sisters and 
daughters, if unmarried, must have attained the age 
of eighteen years" to be eligible to the degrees. No 
provision was made for an address or report from 
the Grand Matron. 

In 1873 the Grand Patron reported the organiza- 
tion of the Eastern Star mutual benefit association, 
which seems to have survived for a number of years, 
and then dropped out of sight. The Grand Patron 
also reported that 

At the masonic fair held in this city in March and 
April last for the benefit of the hall and asylum fund, 
the Eastern Star was particularly prominent. At al- 
most every table 1 were to be found members of the 
order actively employed. At the great masonic fair 
held in this city in 1866 for the same noble purpose, 
the ladies of the Eastern Star were also' numerous 
and active. Through their exertions much of the 
material aid that swelled the receipts of that enter- 
prise to the very respectable sum of $50,000, may 
be attributed to them. Immediately after the close of 
that fair, Alpha chapter, then just organized, added 
from the proceeds of an entertainment and personal 
contributions the sum of $1,000. 

The amounts realized in 1873, by the chapters, 
aggregated $1,617. 



NEW YORK. 279 

Rob Morris was present as a visitor in 1873, and 
delivered an address. Star officers were added to the 
roil of grand officers. In 1874 provision was made 
"that in no case shall both the Grand Matron and 
Grand Patron be chosen from this city, or the coun- 
try, but one from each. This rule shall govern in the 
choice of other grand officers." Sisters were also ex- 
empted from dependence upon the standing of the 
masons through whom they obtained membership. 
The Grand Patron reported having assisted in "the 
ceremonies of adoption and lustration according to 
the rites of the order, upon two lovely female! chil- 
dren," and concerning it he said: 

The persons selected, or voluntarily acting as guar- 
dians, solemnly promise in behalf of the chapter, to 
watch over and protect them until they have attained 
mature age, or so long as they live, and do require 
it, and it is in their power to do so; to guard them 
against danger and temptation ; to forgive, if they re- 
pent; to instruct their inexperience; to reprove their 
faults, and admonish them with a view to improve^ 
ment; and by precept and example, teach tEem to be 
good and virtuous. 

This is all that is known of this "rite of the or- 
der (?)." It is possible that brother Macoy had. an 
idea that it might be, at some future time developed 
for the mutual benefit of the order and himself. Con- 
cerning the burial service he said: 

I have * * prepared a service * * and would 
respectfully recommend that it be printed by the 
grand chapter for the use of the order in this state 
* * to be supplied to chapters with or without 
charge, as you may deem advisable. 

This was a revision of the service incorporated 
in Adoptive Rite, and was subsequently ordered in- 
corporated into the ritulal. (Macoy's Ritual.) It had, 
how T ever, been previously published, without being 
copyrighted, in pamphlet form. 



280 NEW YORK. 

The. grand chapters of California, Indiana, Massa- 
chusetts, New Jersey, and Vermont were formally 
recognized in 1874, and brother Macoy was pre- 
sented "several pieces of silver" by Eleanor Burton, 
in behalf of members of the order, to which he pleas- 
antly responded. 

In 1877 brother Macoy, in the report on corre- 
spondence, vigorously attacked the General Grand 
Chapter, and its "so-called Secretary;" labored to 
show, what was not a fact, that the Grand Chap- 
ter of New York was "the parent grand chapter of the 
world," and gave all who differed with him, espe- 
cially the Grand Matron of Connecticut, most severe 
criticism. He pronounced concerning her address 
"Much of its sentiment, pathos, and flowery exordi- 
ums are better adapted to the annual fourth of July 
celebrations than the peaceful and conservative ses- 
sion of a grand chapter," and after quoting some 
"pathos," said: 

Angels and ministers of grace defend us! What 
has this 1 to do with the transactions of the Eastern 
Star? A few more such profuse exhilirations froui 
this or any other grand east, and our order will be 
the subject of ridicule, and, finally, disaster. She 
expresses a desire that the work should be uniform, 
and the landmiarks perfectly similar. Upon these 
points we say, most heartily, Amen! And to bring 
about <a result so desirable, we would respectfully 
suggest that our enthusiastic sister confine her labors 
to the state of Connecticut, where she can, as she 
fervently expresses, "Make "New- England's sterile 
rocks blossom as the rose." This sentiment is not in 
harmony with the parable of the sower, as uttered by 
our Saviour: "And some (seed) fell upon a rock, and 
soon as it sprung up it withered away, because it 
lacked moisture." By the way, in a country where 
the soil is so fertile that "sterile rocks blossom," 
would not that be a first-class place; to raise Cain \ 

The report was referred to a committee "to revise, 



NEW YORK. 281 

and remove all objectionable matter." In reviewing 
this report as committee on correspondence for tlie 
Grand Chapter of Indiana, Nettie Hansford said: 

"Angels and ministers of grace defend us/' if this 
be the revised report, what must the original have 
been? * * The report is so full of abuse of all 
who happen to entertain views which differ from 
those of the chairman of the committee, that we can 
not conceive how it could have been received. 

In 1879 a committee was appointed to obtain from 
brother Macoy a copy of the degree of the Good 
Samaritan, "which, if after due examination, shall 
be approved by the committee, or a majority thereof, 
said committee snail be, and they are hereby empow- 
ered to present the said degree to the several chap- 
ters in this jurisdiction as a second, or advanced de- 
gree in the system of the Adoptive Rite;" but the 
following year the committee submitted an adverse re- 
port, which was adopted. A revised constitution was 
adopted which described the jurisdiction of the grand 
chapter as "co-extensive with the geographical limits 
of the state," but, by a resolution offered by brother 
Macoy, the executive officers were "authorized and 
empowered to grant charters, on proper application, 
in all places where no grand chapter exists," and 
in pursuance of this resolution, the Grand Patron, in 
1880, reported that he had granted charters to chap- 
ters at Bowling Green, Kentucky; Baltimore, Mary- 
land; and Laramie City, Wyoming; and he also re- 
ported the appointment of Deputy Grand Patrons 
for the states of Maryland and Tennessee. 

In 1884 the degree of the Amaranth was exempli- 
fied before the grand chapter; the Grand Patron re- 
ported that he had "received a communication from 
Farmersville Chapter ~No. 13, of Texas, accompanied 
with the sum of $24.50 for dues, as they were work- 
ing under a charter granted from New York, some 



282 NEW YORK. 

time ago." The matter was referred to the committee 
on credentials and returns, which recommended that 
the money be received, which was concurred in, hut 
the committee 1 did not state on what grounds it based 
its recommendation. This chapter bought its charter 
from brother Macoy, and if anybody collected dues 
from it, it should have been the Supreme Grand 
Chapter. It might be contended that, by his propos- 
ing the resolution to grant charters for chapters out- 
side of the state of New York, he had voluntarily 
transferred to the grand chapter his self-assumed 
powers. It would be interesting to know, were the 
data at hand, how many other chapters " working 
under a charter granted from New York," remitted 
money for their dues, which was not turned over to 
the grand chapter. At this meeting the Grand Ma- 
tron was made the executive head of the grand 
chapter. 

An entertainment netting $500 was given under 
the auspices of the Grand Matron, April 15, 1886, 
for the benefit of the hall and asylum fund, and, in 
1889 a fair was conducted by the Eastern Star ma- 
sonic fair association, under the management of Past 
Grand Matron Demarest, for the benefit of the ma- 
sonic home, which netted $2,278.01. 

In 1888 the grand chapter by resolution, and with- 
out formal charges or trial, suspended from the grand 
chapter a Past Matron "until such time as she re- 
turns the books and property of" a defunct chapter, 
but the following year she was reinstated without 
having complied with the conditions. Twenty-five 
dollars were appropriated for the relief of sufferers 
from the Johnstown flood. 

In 1890 the Grand Matron reported that the Grand 
Lecturer having used his office "to advance the 
Queen of the South in the interest of Kobert Macoy, 



NEW YORK. 283 

and to the injury of the order/' the office had been 
declared vacant. The committee on addresses reported 
"the act not justifiable, and without precedent," 
which report was adopted. The grand chapter or- 
dered that "no member be permitted to hold com- 
mission as grand representative from more than one 
sister grand chapter," and divided the state into four 
districts, with a Deputy Grand Matron in Each. It 
also ordered that "all private or personal matters 
that have transpired in the metropolitan district that 
would have an injurious influence, or criticism upon 
the good name of our order in this state," be omitted 
from the address of the Grand Matron, but subse- 
quently the address w 7 as published under the auspices 
of the Grand Matron, and, from a perusal of it, we 
think the grand chapter fully justified in its action, 
but Ave cannot fail to note that when the Grand Chap- 
ter of Indiana previously took similar action regard- 
ing the address of its Grand Matron, it was severely 
criticised by some of those who w T ere instrumental 
in "suppressing" a portion of this address. 

In 1891 a "commission of appeals" v r as appointed, 
to "hear all grievances before presented to this grand 
chapter;' 7 a committee of one from each chap- 
ter w r as appointed "to give an entertainment in 2sTew 
York and Brooklyn to raise a nucleus for the purpose 
of providing a home for the deserving members of 
the order," and the Grand Matron reported that "she 
had directed the Grand Secretary to write to- the Most 
Worshipful Grand Master, and offer the services of 
the order to furnish one room in the masonic home 
at ITtiea, when completed, which might, perhaps, be 
set apart for the use of the deserving of the order," 
and subsequently $200 were appropriated for the ob- 
ject. A committee was appointed "to draft resolu- 
tions giving expression to the grateful sense of this 



284 NEW YORK. 

grand chapter for the valuable services rendered the 
order by brother Robert Macoy," which reported a 
set of resolutions from which we quote: 

He has seen the labors of his hands abundantly 
blessed, and as the shades, of evening gather about 
our brother, and the sunset glow sheds a halo upon 
his pathway, it is with pleasure that we place upon 
record this testimony of our love for him, and our 
appreciation of the services he has rendered to the 
Order of the Eastern Star. 

The grand chapter recommended "that the obliga- 
tion be repeated by the candidate, and the rooui dark- 
ened from the time of entrance until the: taking of the 
obligation," and that the candidate kneel. This had 
not been allowed before this, <as the Macoy Ritual 
prescribed that the candidate should stand in front 
of the Associate Matron's station, and should simply 
assent to the obligation after it had been repeated 
to her. Concerning the candidate's kneeling, as first 
prescribed in the General Grand Chapter Ritual, 
brother Macoy said in Critical and Explanatory 
Notes: 

She is also required to kneel, which was not the 
original practice. The act in this place: is indecorous 
and unbecoming a lady. The correct position is that 
the candidate shall stand in front of the A. M., near 
the station of Esther. 

The number of candidates to be initiated at one 
time was limited to five. An Eastern Star Home 
Association was organized, and receipts were reported 
in 1892 as $1,178.25, and in 1900 the fund showed 
a balance of $4,089.33. In 1892 M. Libbie Putnam 
was appointed "permanent chairman" of the corre- 
spondence committee, in which capacity she served 
three years, and then resigned, the work being done 
by different committees for three years, since which 
the duties have been ably discharged by Frederick 



NEW YORK. 285 

W. Putnam. This grand chapter has learned, what 
many grand chapters are slow to do, that in order 
to get the highest good from such reports, they must 
be written by an experienced hand, and that a good 
correspondent, once secured, should be retained for 
years, if not for life. The standing and reputation 
of a grand chapter in the Eastern Star world de- 
pends more upon its reports on correspondence than 
any other one thing. To change every year, and to 
appoint the retiring Grand Matron, as is sometimes 
the practice, is as absurd as was the practice, now 
happily going out of style, of appointing the Grand 
Matron of a jurisdiction the grand representative of 
other grand chapters near her own. A sister may 
make a very efficient Grand Matron and a very poor 
corre sp ond e n t . 

In 1894 May 30 was set apart for the annual "dec- 
orating with flowers, and performing suitable me- 
morial exercises over the graves of deceased mem- 
bers." The "twenty-fifth anniversary of the estab- 
lishment of the order," was celebrated in June, 1894, 
by an elaborate banquet, and addresses by brother 
Macoy, and others. 

In 1897 a sister after due trial was found guilty 
and sentenced to be suspended for two years, and 
to pay the cost of the trial. 

In 1900 a committee was appointed "to ascertain 
or devise some way to procure a monument for our 
late brother Robert Macoy;" and words of loving 
sympathy were sent to> Eleanor Burton v r ho< has been 
for many years a leader in the affairs of the grand 
chapter, who was prevented by sickness from being 
present. 

The matter of ritual has been a subject frequently 
before the grand body, and we give a summary of its 
actions. 



286 NEW YORK. 

In 1873 Robert Macoy, as Grand Patron, recom- 
mended the appointment of a committee "looking 
to certain improvements in the ritual/ 7 and the com- 
mittee appointed in pursuance of this resolution re- 
ported the following year, and "the ritual as amended 
and published in 1874/' was adopted as the standard 
work, and five' hundred copies were ordered "printed 
and paid for from the funds of the grand chapter." 

In 1875 the Grand Patron said in his address: 

In the month of November our Grand Lecturer, 
brother B. T. Burnham, at my request, handed me 
manuscript for the completion of our work of initia- 
tion. * * This I caused to be printed, and di- 
rected the Grand Lecturer to forward copies to each 
chapter for their use. * * Our ritual being thus 
complete, I now recommend that a committee of five 
be appointed by this grand body, whose duty it shall 
be to carefully revise it, and that the said committee 
be directed to publish the same under the sanction of 
this grand chapter. 

The work referred to included the Patron's lec- 
ture as in Maeoy's Ritual, and, on motion of brother 
Macoy it was "adopted by this grand chapter as the 
standard work of the order in this state/' and a com- 
mittee consisting of brothers Macoy and Greenwood 
was appointed to "revise the ritual of the order." 

In relation to its report the Grand Patron said 
in 1876: 

The committee have * * given great care and 
incessant labor to their work; and received suggestions 
from many members long in the order. 

The committee reported a revised ritual and it 
was adopted. Brother Burnham made an ineffectual 
motion to correct the ritual as reported in one par- 
ticular, "to read as originally written," saying "I 
am unwilling to allow such an .answer to go out be- 
fore the intelligent members of the order as the work 



NEW YORK. 287 

recommended by B. T. Burnham, Grand Lecturer of 
1875." 

In 1879 the ritual was amended by adding some 
portions of the General Grand Chapter ritual, and 
in 1880 further amendments were made. In 1881 
it was 

Resolved, that a committee be appointed to con- 
sider the propriety of enlarging the ritual by the ad- 
dition of new degrees, with power to make such addi- 
tions, if the best interests of the order seem to require 
such action, and to take into consideration such mat- 
ters connected with the ritual, and harmonize any 
inaccuracies therein as may be found. 

The committee in 1882 reported quite extended 
alterations, but the report was recommitted to the 
committee to report the following year, which it did, 
and after an exemplification of the revised work, the 
report was laid on the table for fifty years, and the 
committee was discharged with thanks. It was also 
"Resolved, that the floral addenda (of which 
brother A. J. Burton is author), be .added to and be- 
come a part of the ritual of this grand chapter." 

In 1885 further amendments were made to the 
ritual, and it was declared that the floral addenda 
might be conferred in public, but this was reversed 
the following year. i 

In 1888 a committee w 7 as appointed to revise the 
ritual, which reported the following year, and its 
report was laid on the table. In 1895 the sisterhood 
degree, written by brother Burton, was adopted as an 
auxiliary to the ritual. It was described as "founded 
on the ladder of Jacob, or as it is generally known 
as the theological ladder. A lucid explanation of the 
star in the east is also given." During 1895 the 
Grand Matron and Grand Lecturer set forth some 
additions to the ritual in a circular to the chapters, 



288 NEW YORK. 

and ordered that they take immediate effect. A sign 
of distress and motto accompanying it were, adopted. 
In 1895 a committee was appointed to arrange 
with the owners of the copyright of the ritual, 
whereby the grand chapter could control its sale, and 
also revise it, which reported in 1896 in favor of the 
purchase at $300, and an assessment of five dollars 
was levied on each chapter to pay the same, which 
was promptly responded to. In 1897 it was reported 
that 

Since the close of the matter of purchase * * a 

new ritual * * has been issued containing * * 

the whole work of the Eastern Star, and placed on 
sale. 

It was resolved that proper measures should be 
taken at once to protect the interests of the grand 
chapter, and that suitable papers be legally drawn 
up and served upon the previous owner of the ritual, 
and the publisher of the new work referred to, to 
restrain the further publishing and sale of the book. 

But in 1898 the committee in the matter reported 
that it 

Found the expense attending any legal measures 
would be greater than the grand chapter would be 
justified in incurring, and that the publication of the 
ritual by other parties was not of sufficient injury to 
the grand chapter to cause any uneasiness. 

Chapters were, forbidden to use rituals not pur- 
chased of the Grand Secretary. In 1897 a committee 
was appointed to revise the ritual, which reported 
progress in 1898, and the Grand Lecturer was em- 
powered to eliminate from the ritual grammatical and 
historical errors. The committee made final report 
in 1899, and the ritual was ordered published. (New 
York Ritual.) 

Concerning the General Grand Chapter the record 
is as follows: 

In 1876 the communication from the Grand Chap- 



NEW YORK. 289 

ter of Indiana, inviting the grand chapter to send 
delegates to the convention which organized the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter, was read and ordered placed on 
file. 

In 1881 the Grand Patron in his address having 
advocated joining the General Grand Chapter, it was 

Resolved, that this grand chapter deprecates and 
disapproves of any effort on the part of its members 
to establish relations of membership between this 
grand chapter and the organization styling itself the 
General Grand Chapter. 

In 1885 the Grand Matron, evidently not being 
awed by the foregoing resolution, said, in her ad- 
dress: 

We need bnit look at the reports of the various 
states connected with the General Grand Chapter 
to satisfy ourselves that while our own state is di- 
minishing in numbers every state enrolled with the 
General Grand Chapter is alive in interest, and in- 
creasing in members. * * In my judgment the 
time is at hand when all grand chapters should ac- 
knowledge allegiance to the General Grand Chapter, 
and in doing so this grand chapter would surrender 
no right that it is important that she should exercise. 

A resolution bearing on the matter was laid upon 
the table for one year, when it was unanimously re- 
solved that the grand chapter do not join the General 
Grand Chapter. 

In 1897 a committee was appointed "to take into 
consideration the advisability of joining the General 
Grand Chapter, or using the ritual of the same, 77 
which reported in 1898, when a committee was ap- 
pointed to attend the meeting of the General Grand 
Chapter in Washington and "make due and careful 
inquiry into all matters concerning membership in 
the General Grand Chapter and as to rituals, etc., 
and report. 77 

19 



290 NEW YORK. 

In 1899 the committee reported at length the basis 
that had been agreed upon by the committee and the 
General Grand Chapter for the consideration of the 
matter, action on which was deferred until the fol- 
lowing year, when the grand chapter took no notice 
of it. 

There have been 203 chapters organized in this 
state, 160 of which survive. 

Decisions. — Kneeling at the altar and darkening 
the room during the initiation of a candidate is 
hereby ordered to be discontinued. 1874. Reversed 
in 1891. 

The Matron finding one rejecting ballot, may, 
without remark, order one or more ballots, not ex- 
ceeding three, provided no announcement of the ballot 
has been made. 1896. 

The Worthy Patron, or a master mason in good 
standing, must preside during the ceremonies of initi- 
ation; also at the annual election and installation of 
the officers. 1896. 

Grand Matron. — 1870-1872, ^Frances E. John- 
son; 1873, Prudence B. Lyons; 1874, Eleanor Bur- 
ton; 1875, Jeannie S. Ramsdell; 1876, *Eliza A. 
Macoy; 1877, Jennie E. Barnes; 1878, ^Christiana 
Buttrick; 1879, Marietta E. Eaulkner; 1880, *Sarah 
A. Greenwood; 1881, Sophia E. Brisco; 1882, Kate 
E. Hopper; 1883, Martha J. Brett; 1884, Jennie S. 
Molesworth; 1885, Mary E. Blanding; 1886, Eliza 
M. Demarest; 1887, Sadie E. McKelvey; 1888, Mar- 
tha W. Travis; 1889, Helen A. Bobbins; 1890, 
Rachel L. Stiefel; 1891, M. Libbie Putnam; 1892, 
Hannah L. Quinn; 1893, Elizabeth Raymond; 1894, 
Elizabeth Paterson; 1895, Jessie M. Pay; 1896, An- 
nie L. Brooks; 1897, Ida E. Harrigan; 1898, D. M. 
Buttrick (Clark); 1899, M. Eva Williams; 1900, 
Rebecca Niner. 

Grand Patron. — 1870, ^Edward O. Jenkins; 1871, 

*Deceased. 



NORTH DAKOTA. 291 

Fred D. Ramsdell; 1872-1873, *Robert Macoy; 1874, 
Robert J. Greenwood; 1875, ^Herman G. Carter; 
1876, Myers T. Webb; 1877, *Jaoob M. Hopper; 
1878, Dayton Ball; 1879, * Joseph W. Beatley; 1880, 
Robert J. Greenwood; 1881, *Oalvin D. Hayward; 
1882, Charles H. Green; 1883, Benjamin F. Ferris; 
1884, -Joseph A. Faulkner; 1885, K J. Hebbard; 
1886, Benjamin T. Bobbins; 1887, George W. 
Becker; 1888, Henry L. Fowler; 1889, Edwin Sel- 
vage; 1890, John W. Merriman; 1891, George S. 
Barber; 1892, Frederick "Wurtz; 1893, John C. 
Heineman; 1894, James E. Batsford; 1895, *J. V. 
B. Green; 1896, Otto H. Fasoldt; 1897, Edward F. 
Barnes; 1898, Frank Raymond; 1899, fm. J. Dun- 
can; 1900, Delevan G. Ross. 

Grand Secretary. — 1870-71, ^Robert Macoy; 
1872-73, *Geiorge Ackerman; 1874-75, *Wm. H. 
Lefferts; 1876, *John J. Sproull; 1877-78, *Calvin 
D. Hayward; 1879-99, ^Christiana Buttrick; 1900, 
Eliza M. Demarest. 

NORTH DAKOTA. 

The first chapter was Lady Washington No. 1, 
Jamestown, chartered by the General Grand Chap- 
ter September 7, 1887; the second being chartered 
in 1892. There were thirteen chapters in the state 
when the Most Worthy Grand Patron called the 
convention to meet at Valley City on June 14, 1894, 
to organize the grand chapter. There was a social, 
preliminary to the convention, which is thus recorded 
in the proceedings: 

On Wednesday afternoon, June 13, 1894, the 
grand lodge of A. F. and A. M., then in session at 
Valley City, extended an invitation to the representa- 
tives of the several chapters of the Order of 
the Eastern Star, who had assembled for the purpose 
of organizing a grand chapter to attend the instal- 

*Deceased. 



292 NORTH DAKOTA. 

lation of the grand lodge officers, Mrs. Lorraine J. 
Pitkin, Eight Worthy Grand Secretary of the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter being present, accepted an invi- 
tation to sit in the grand east during the installation; 
this being the first time a lady ever received such 
distinguished honors at the hands of masons, Mrs. 
Pitkin in a very impressive speech thanked the grand 
lodge for the courtesy extended to her. 

A reception and banquet was given in the even- 
ing in honor of the officers and delegates of the 
grand lodge of A. P. and A. M., Royal Arch Ma- 
sons, Knights Templar and Order of the Eastern 
Star. The banquet was one worthy of the occasion. 

The convention met on the fourteenth, and was 
presided over by sister Pitkin, deputy of the Most 
Worthy Grand Matron and Most Worthy Grand Pa- 
tron, all the thirteen chapters being represented by 
forty-one delegates. A constitution was adopted 
making the Grand Matron the executive head, and 
fixing the per capita dues at twenty-five cents per 
annum. The officers elected were, on invitation of 
the grand chapter of Poyal Arch masons, installed 
at a joint installation, in the evening. Before the 
close of the grand chapter it was 

Resolved, that we beg the grand lodge A. P. and 
A. M., the grand chapter R. A. M., and the grand 
commandery K. T. to receive our humble expressions 
of thankfulness for the encouragement given to, and 
the courtesies bestowed upon us at the beginning of 
our career. 

The floral work was first given before the grand 
chapter in 1895. In 1896 a floral offering was sent 
to the Grand Royal Arch Chapter in session in a 
room adjoining the grand chapter. In the year 1899- 
1900 the Grand Matron successfully introduced the 
district school of instruction system, under the su- 
pervision of district deputies. In 1900 the secret 
work was ordered printed in cypher and the old 



NORTH DAKOTA. 293 

copies destroyed; twenty-four persons who were mem- 
bers of the convention that organized the grand chap- 
ter, not otherwise members of the grandj chapter 
were, by resolution, made permanent members; and 
it was 

Resolved, that the second Sunday in September be 
observed as memorial day, on which day each chap- 
ter in this grand jurisdiction hold a chapter of sor- 
row in memory of the deceased members of the 
order. 

The record of this grand chapter in regard to the 
permanency of chapters is unexcelled, none of the 
chapters failing to report at any meeting of the grand 
chapter. 

Decisions. — Sisters are not eligible to act as dep- 
uties of the Grand Patron in instituting new chap- 
ters. 1896. 

In case of the suspension or expulsion of a brother 
by the blue lodge, upon official notice being received 
by a chapter to which the suspended or expelled 
brother belonged, under the seal of the lodge, he 
shall then be declared suspended or expelled from 
the chapter, but in case such official notice is refused 
by the lodge, then it will be necessary to prefer 
charges against the brother, and try him. 1896. 

A chapter should not be named after a living 
person. 1897. 

Petitions for the degrees should contain the ques- 
tions: "Are you eighteen years 1 of age or over?" and 
"Do you believe in a supreme Deity?" and petitions 
and committee's report blanks should be printed sep- 
arately. 1898. 

The floral work can be given only in the presence 
of members of the order. 1898. 

The bible on the altar should be opened at the sec- 
ond chapter of St. Matthew. 1900. 

No more than four candidates should be obligated 
at the same time. 1900. 



294 ohio. 

Grand Matron.— 1894, '"Elizabeth White; 1895, 
Sarah E. Topping; 1896, Sarah C. Gannon; 1897, 
Elizabeth Porter; 1898, Ida M. Lacey; 1899, Helen 
M. Stoekwell; 1900, Josephine Eolsoui. 

Grand Patron.— 1894, Thomas 1ST. Kitchie; 1895, 
Leonard A. Rose; 1896, David E. Morgan; 1897, 
A. 0. Plumley; 1898, David M. Holmes; 1899, 
Erancis Ingalls; 1900, John McDonald. 

Grand Secretary. — 1894-96, Nannie B. Briggs; 
1897-1900, Florence M. Hoskins. 

OHIO. 

Brother Macoy chartered a chapter at Vermillion, 
in March, 1869, but it did not survive. Previous to 
this-, in 1868, the grand lodge 

Resolved, that the said degrees, otherwise called 
adoptive or androgynous masonry, are not legitimate 
masonic degrees, and do> not entitle the recipients 
thereof to any of the rights or benefits; of masonry; 
that the conferring of said degree on women is cal- 
culated to deceive and mislead them, and is, therefore, 
improper. 

Resolved, that the lodges of this jurisdiction are 
forbidden, under any pretense whatever, to permit 
their halls to be used for 1 the purpose of conferring 
said degree. 

By authority of the Most "Worthy Grand Patron, 
Willis D. Engle communicated the degrees to Dr. C. 
S. Chorlton, in April, 1883, and he was made deputy 
for the state, and on November 13, 1883, Lorraine 
Chapter !No. 1, at Columbus, was chartered. Pearl 
!No. 2, Cleveland, was organized in December, 1886, 
and others rapidly followed, but Dr. Chorlton did 
not live to see the consummation of his desires, as he 
died May 1, 1889, while the grand chapter was not 
organized until July 24 following, in a Knights of 
Pythias hall in Cleveland, the Most Worthy Grand 

^Deceased. 



ohio. 295 

Patron presiding, and all of the five chapters in the 
state being represented by thirteen delegates. The 
Grand Matron was made the executive officer, and 
the per capita dues fixed at twenty-five cents per 
annum. 

In 1890 Past Matrons and Past Patrons were, by 
resolution, allowed to appoint proxies to represent 
them, but the law was changed so as to specifically 
forbid such representation, in 1891. In the latter 
year a committee was appointed to memoralize the 
grand lodge asking permission for chapters to* hold 
meetings in masonic lodge rooms, and in 1892 it was 
made a standing committee, and the grand chapter 
made an appropriation covering the expenses of the 
chairman of the committee 1 , who handed the amount 
over the ladies' aid society of Pearl Chapter, to be 
used in assisting to furnish a cottage at the masonic 
home. In 1892 the grand lodge decreed that "with 
the consent of the Grand Master, and the unanimous 
consent of members of all masonic bodies occupying 
masonic halls/' their use might be granted toi chap- 
ters of the order for festival and ceremonial purposes. 
In 1896 the Grand Matron said in her address to the 
grand chapter: 

At the very beginning of the official year, Grand 
Master Mellish plainly signified his intention not to 
allow any chapters of the Order of the Eastern Star 
to meet in a masonic hall. He also declared that those 
chapters already meeting in lodge rooms had no legal 
right there, and many of our chapters were ordered 
by him to seek quarters elsewhere. 

But in 1897 the grand lodge ordered that chapters 
might meet in masonic halls by obtaining the consent 
of the masonic bodies using the same. This opened up 
the way for a more rapid extension of the order, 
which was well improved, as the statistics for 1900 
show. 



296 ohio. 

In 1892 the floral work was exemplified before the 
grand chapter for the first time, and the grand chap- 
ter was banqueted by the members of the local ma- 
sonic lodge who were not members of the order. In 
1894 Belle Schmuck was elected Grand Matron in 
her absence, but the honor was declined in her behalf, 
by her husband. The General Grand Chapter was 
most hospitably entertained at Columbus in 1892, 
but the records of the grand chapter show no details. 

In 1890 a committee was appointed to devise ways 
and means to secure a home for the indigent masons 
and their children. In 1895 the Grand Matron was 
authorized to issue an appeal to chapters for contri- 
butions for the masonic home at Springfield, but 
owing to the action of the Grand Master in relation 
to chapters meeting in masonic halls, she did not do 
so. In 1897 the grand chapter appropriated one hun- 
dred dollars to the home which had been completed 
by the masons at a cost of $17,500. In 1898 twenty- 
eight chapters contributed to the Christmas cheer of 
the occupants of the home, and the grand chapter 
appropriated one hundred dollars to the home, and 
did likewise in 1899 while forty-one subordinate 
chapters gave $470.44. In 1900 seventy-two chap- 
ters gave $797.70 in Christmas offerings for the 
home. 

In 1895 the state was divided into districts with a 
Deputy Grand Matron in each, and detailed reports 
are submitted annually as to the condition of the 
various chapters. In 1896 the seventeen chapters or- 
ganized during the administration of Ada C. Gaskell 
as Grand Matron presented her a Past Grand Ma- 
tron's jewel, and the grand chapter voted to present 
all Past Grand Matrons such jewels, at an expense of 
twenty-five dollars each. In 1898 Sedgwick's monitor 
for use in connection with stereopticon views was 



ohio. 297 

endorsed; the secret work as printed, was recalled 
and the same issued in cypher. In 1899 the grand 
chapter by a rising vote elected the superintendent 
of the masonic home and his wife to receive the de- 
grees, and proceeded to confer the same, the Sedg- 
wick monitor lectures being given by brother Sedg- 
wick. In 1900 the three months' old baby of the 
Grand Secretary, "O. E. S"hearer, was adopted by 
the grand chapter, but it is presumed that the Grand 
Secretary is the official custodian. 

Decisions. — A member dimitted from a chapter 
in New York can not affiliate in Ohio!. 1895. Re- 
versed in 1896. 

Chapters can not admit as visitors members belong- 
ing to chapters which do not owe allegiance to the 
General Grand Chapter. 1895. Reversed in 1896. 

Chapters should be closed before the floral work 
is given. 1896. 

A veil can be used for the candidate during initi- 
ation. 1896. 

Card parties can not be given in a chapter room. 
1896. 

The titles brother and sister should only be used 
in the sacred precincts of the chapter room; never in 
public, or in presence of those not members of the 
order. 1896. 

When there are a number of applicants to be voted 
on, if no objection is made, a collective ballot may be 
taken. 1897. 

It is highly improper to exhibit the floral work 
or floral march to the public. 1898. 

Members from !N~ew York affiliating must be re- 
obligated. 1899. 

All stated meetings must be opened and closed the 
same day. 1899. 

A quorum is necessary to close a chapter. 1900. 

The ballot box should never be placed upon the 
bible. 1900. 

Past Matrons and Past Patrons only are eligible to 
office in the grand chapter. 1900. 



298 ohio. 

The office should seek the person and not the per- 
son the office. It is unwise and undignified to> solicit 
votes for an office or a member, and the practice! has a 
tendency to create ill feelings and dissensions among 
the membership^ of the grand chapter. It is therefore 
an offense against the order, and members guilty 
thereof shall be subject to discipline. 1900. 

Tlhe Grand Matron shall not issue a dispensation 
to ballot upon a petition for initiation or membership 
upon the same evening it is presented. 1900. 

The Worthy Matron, Worthy Patron and Associ- 
ate Matron shall not be elected to the same office 
for more than two consecutive years. 1900. 

The Worthy Patron must be a master mason and 
a contributing member of an Eastern Star chapter 
and a regular masonic lodge. 1900. 

A member who is indebted for two years' dues 
shall be notified, and if the dues are not paid in one 
month, it shall be the duty of the Worthy Matron 
to declare such member suspended. 1900. 

Upon the trial of a sister, at the request of the ma- 
jority of the sisters present, the brethren shall retire; 
and upon the trial of a brother, at the request of a 
majority of the brethren present, the sisters shall re- 
tire. 1900. 

At its meeting in 1900 an entirely new constitution 
and code of laws were adopted, drawn upon original 
lines, in many respects admirable, and far in advance 
of the average. This will account for the large num- 
ber of decisions noted above. The last rule, which 
is also that of Indiana, might give rise to some embar- 
rassment if, on the night set for the trial of a brother 
there should be, as we have sometimes seen, but one 
or two brethren present. 

Grand Matron.— 1889, *Mattie E. Felton; 1890, 
Mary C. Mitchell; 1891,*E. J. McClintock; 1892, 
Ada E. Gaskell; 1893, *K. J. McClintock; 1894, 
Linda J. Lowery; 1895, Gertrude B. Williams; 1896, 
Mary J. Stephens; 1897, Mary C. Gladding; 1898, 

♦Deceased. 



ONTARIO— OREGON. 299 

Elizabeth! M. Walton; 1899, Bessie E. Hastings; 
1900, Kate E. Jackman. 

Grand Patron.— 1889, Kobert T. King; 1890, *L 
K Hathaway; 1891, S. H. Schinuck; 1892, W. H. 
Osborne; 1893, John M. Brodrick; 1894, W. W. 
Hathaway; 1895, O. B. Clark; 1896, Charles A. 
Eckart; 1897, John Blyth; 1898, John M. Stull; 
1899, Clare Smith, M. D.; 1900, William J. Sample. 

Grand Secretary.— 1889, M. C. Mitchell; 1890, 
J. Ellen Doten; 1891-1900, Ella B, Shearer. 

ONTARIO. 

The General Grand Chapter chartered Queen 
Esther Chapter No. 1, Toronto, March 13, 1882, 
and subsequently four other chapters in the Province, 
and a grand chapter was organized in Toronto, May 
3, 1882, but neither the subordinate chapters nor 
the grand chapter long survived, and it was officially 
declared dead, and the General Grand Chapter re- 
sumed jurisdiction of the Province, August 8, 1889. 

Grand Matron. — A. Robertson. 

Grand Patron. — Alexander Gardner. 

Grand Secretary. — W. T. B, Haywood. 

. OREGON. 

Brother Maeoy issued a charter for a chapter at 
Oregon City, in January, 1870, and later for three 
others, but none of them survived at the time of the 
organization of the grand chapter. The first chapter 
chartered by the General Grand Chapter was Alpha 
!No. 1, at Ashland, February 24, 1880, William S. 
Moses, who was the organizer of the first chapter on 
the Pacific coast, being the organizing officer. Mne 
chapters had been organized when Roseburg Chapter 
~No. 8 issued the call for the convention to organize 
the grand chapter, which met at Boseburg, October 3, 
1889, at which six chapters were represented. Of the 



300 OREGON. 

ten chapters then in existence seven survive. The 
constitution of the Grand Chapter of California was 
adopted with some emendations. It made all Past 
Matrons and Past Patrons members of the grand 
chapter, and provided that chapters should elect rep- 
resentatives to act when any of the three principal 
officers of a chapter could not attend the meeting of 
the grand chapter. The Grand Patron was made the 
executive head, and he so continued until 1892, when 
the Grand Matron succeeded to the executive powers; 
the per capita dues were fixed at fifty cents per an- 
num; the state was districted, and a Deputy Grand 
Matron provided for each district, which continued 
until 1897, when the districts were abolished. The 
minimum fee for the degrees was fixed at two dol- 
lars and a half for ladies and five dollars for gentle- 
men, but it was equalized in 1892. 

In 1892 a memorial to the grand lodge was adopted 
in which it was stated: 

We come to you as your mothers, wives, daugh- 
ters, widows, sisters, sons and brothers would 
come to you, and ask that we be allowed to assist you 
in carrying forward the grand work. 

To which the grand lodge responded: 

The grand lodge will be glad of your co-operation 
in the fraternal and charitable work of the masonic 
order, and when the members of this, grand lodge 
go back to their several homes, they will endeavor 
to do all in their power towards furthering the inter- 
ests of the Order of the Eastern Star among masons 
and their families. 

Similar greetings were also exchanged in 1896. 
In 1894 the grand chapter, by invitation, attended 
in a body a lodge of sorrow held by the grand lodge, 
In 1895 the grand chapter exemplified the work, the 
candidate being a master mason, who was thereupon 



OREGON. 301 

declared "a member of the Grand Chapter of Ore- 
gon." The printed copies of the secret work were 
recalled and destroyed. The practice of veiling the 
candidate evidently prevailed until 1896, when, on 
recommendation of the Grand Patron, it was discon- 
tinued. A grand chapter of sorrow was held in Port- 
land, November 7, 1897, in memory of Julia Abra- 
ham, Past Grand Matron. 

At the opening of the grand chapter in 1898 

The several "Worthy Matrons of the Portland chap- 
ters, dressed in the emblematic colors of the order, 
approached the east ladened with appropriate flowers, 
and in turn, welcomed the grand chapter appropri- 
ately, and presented the flowers to the Grand Ma- 
tron. 

The Grand Matron made a strong plea for the es- 
tablishment of a masonic borne, and the grand 
chapter elected five trustees to promote the work, and 
appropriated $300 to the object, and communicated its 
desire to the grand lodge, which declared itself ready 
by counsel and moral support to sustain it. Tne 
chapters contributed $133 and the grand chapter 
appropriated $100 in 1899, but owing to the fact 
that the grand lodge considered the movement pre- 
mature, nothing more definite has been done than to 
invest the $533 at interest. During the meeting 

Tne memorial service was rendered, each chapter 
which bad been called to mourn the loss of a sister 
or brother responded to the roll call witb flowers and 
brief remarks in memory of the deceased. 

And annually since, the grand chapter has held the 
same ceremony. 

Julia Chapter, Canyon City, having sustained a 
heavy loss by fire, many of the members being left 
homeless, and several destitute, in response to an ap- 
peal by the Grand Matron, forty chapters contrib- 



302 OREGON. 

n ted $357. A Past Grand Matron's jewel was pre- 
sented the retiring Grand Matron in 1899, and in 
1900 the grand chapter resolved to present each Past 
Grand Matron a jewel. The memorial service of Acb- 
die C. S. Engle, which had been used by the grand 
chapter several years, was formally adopted as the 
form to be used by the members of the order when 
assembled as a chapter of sorrow, and the uniform 
code of by-laws adopted provided that it may be used 
after the death of any member. 

Of the sixty-six chapters organized in the state sixty 
survive. 

Decisions. — All elective grand officers should be 
saluted with grand honors when visiting a chapter. 
1893. 

No person is eligible to membership by deposit of 
certificate or dimit, except such certificate or dimit 
emanates from a grand chapter which is legally recog- 
nized as working under the jurisdiction of the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter. 1894. 

A Past Matron or Past Patron who has acquired 
the honors in a sister jurisdiction, retains them when 
joining a chapter in this jurisdiction by deposit of 
dimit. 1894. 

It is not allowable for a chapter to take part in a 
celebration or public gathering of any other than a 
masonic nature. 1894. 

It is inconsistent with the spirit and interest of 
masonry, and consequently of our order, to entertain 
any propositions to provide or arrange, by appoint- 
ment of committee or otherwise, for balls. 1895. 

"We adopt the custom of rising and standing when 
our national air, the Star Spangled Banner, is played 
or sung on public occasions, and the national flag shall 
be displayed in the grand chapter room at each an- 
nual communication of this grand body. 1896. 

It is not permissible for any member to give in- 
structions in any of the work of the order, except the 
Worthy Grand Matron, Worthy Grand Patron, 
Grand Lecturer, or District Grand Matron in her own 
jurisdiction. 1896. 



PENNSYLVANIA. 303 

A chapter can not hold an election at a stated 
meeting that occurs on a legal holiday. 1896. 

A chapter can not be formed in any town unless 
some regular masonic body holds stated communica- 
tions therein. 1896. 

If a chapter can not complete its business, it can 
call off until the next day, and continue in session un- 
til the work is completed. 1897. 

No person shall be relieved from the funds of a 
chapter except females and children in some way 
connected with the order of freemasonry. 1900. 

Grand Matron.— 1889, J. M. McCall; 1890, * Julia 
Abraham; 1891, B. A. Miller; 1892, Rose J. Wilson; 
1893, Josephine D. Crocker; 1894, M. A. "Weath- 
erford; 1895, Margaret E. Kellogg; 1896, Frances 
A. Helm; 1897-1898, M. B. Conkling; 1899, Mar- 
garet L. Lutke; 1900, Jessie S. Vert. 

Grand Patron.— 1889, Robert A. Miller; 1890, 
*A. C. Jones; 1891, M. F. Rapp; 1892, W. Knowles; 
1893, K B. Crane; 1891-1895, J. H. Bridgeford; 
1896, John Vert; 1897, Rev. C. C. Poling; 1898, 
Dr. L. M. Davis; 1899, Thomas F. Ryan; 1900, E M. 
Haines. 

Grand Secretary. — 1889-1892, Josephine D. 
Crocker; 1893-1894, Frances A. Helm; 1895-1896, 
Madeleine B. Conkling; 1897, Jessie L. Cavana; 1898, 
Josephine D. Crocker; 1899, Mabel Settleniier; 1900, 
Mary Scott Myers. 

PENNSYLVANIA. 

Brother Macoy chartered three chapters in this 
state, the first being at Northumberland, in January, 
1869, but none of them survived. The first chapter 
chartered by the General Grand Chapter was Wyo- 
ming !No. 1, Pittston, on November 11, 1887, it being 
instituted by the Rev. D. W. Coxe, Past Grand Pa- 
tron of Kansas. The convention to organize the 
grand chapter was called by the Most Worthy Grand 



304 RHODE ISLAND. 

Patron, and met in Scranton, November 21, 1894, 
all of the five chapters being represented, and Mary 
C. Snedden, Most Worthy Grand Matron, presided. 
The constitution adopted made Past Matrons and Past 
Patrons members of the grand chapter; the Grand 
Matron its executive head; and fixed the per capita 
dues at twenty-five cents per annum. In 1898 the 
Grand Matron decided, in accordance with the con- 
stitution, that a member of the order in good stand- 
ing could act as proxy in grand chapter, for any 
chapter in the state, which decision the grand chap- 
ter overruled, but a year later it acknowledged its 
error, adopted a resolution of apology, and changed 
the law so as to require a proxy to be a member of 
the chapter represented. In 1899 the annual meet- 
ing was changed from November, 1900, to January, 
1901, so that there was no meeting in 1900. 

Decisions. — A candidate residing in a town or city 
where a chapter is established may be elected to mem- 
bership in a chapter located in another town or city, 
without obtaining the consent of the home chapter. 
1899. 

Grand Matron. — 1894, Annette Gorman; 1895, 
Kata A. Mills; 1896, Frances Montanye; 1897, Mary 
A. Strachen; 1898, B. E. Luckenbaeh; 1899, Mary 
E. Oliver; 1901, Bertha Fordice. 

Grand Patron.— 1894, Philip C. Shaffer; 1895, 
Andrew B. Holmes; 1896, "Win. H. Saunders; 1897, 
Charles Schumaker; 1898, Sylvester K Bayley; 1899, 
Wm. T. Smith; 1901, Frank L. Taylor. 

Grand Secretary. — 1894-1897, Dr. George W. 
Gleason; 1898-1901, Kata A. Mills. 

RHODE ISLAND. 

Providence Chapter !No. 1 was chartered by the 
General Grand Chapter, December 3, 1890, and on 
the call of the General Grand Chapter officers the 
convention to organize the grand chapter met in 



RHODE ISLAND. 305 

Providence, August 22, 1895, all the five chapters in 
the state being represented, Mary C. Snedden, Most 
Worthy Grand Matron presiding, and a number of 
other distinguished visitors, who were on their way 
to Boston, to attend the meeting of the General Grand 
Chapter, were present. Past Matrons and Past Pa- 
trons were made members of the grand chapter, and 
the Grand Matron its presiding; officer; and the per 
capita dues were fixed at twenty-five cents per annum. 
This is one of two grand chapters that do not require 
representatives of five chapters to constitute a quo- 



rum, the law reading Representatives of a majority 
of the chapters, or a majority of the members of the 
grand chapter shall constitute a quorum.' 7 Under 
this law the grand chapter assembled in 1896 with 
fifteen grand officers, five past officers from two 
chapters, and representatives of two chapters. The 
grand chapter has presented jewels to all its Past 
Grand Matrons. 

The coat of arms of this grand chapter which is 
herewith illustrated, and which is incorporated in its 
seal, embraces the arms of ancient craft masonry; 



306 SOUTH DAKOTA. 

the arms of the state of Rhode Island ; thus indicatins: 
by what authority it exists— through the fraternity 
and the state. The star of the order also appears 
while the shield is supported by figures represent- 
ing Ruth and Electa, Esther's crown and scepter ap- 
pearing above it. The motto may be translated: 
"What brighter stars ?" 

Decisions. — A collective ballot may be taken when 
there are two or more petitions to be acted on. 1897. 

It is permissible for a chapter to possess a duplicate 
charter, and use the same in lieu of the original, 
which may be placed in some place secure from fire. 
1899. 

It strikes us that this decision might seriously com- 
plicate matters under certain conditions that might 
arise, and have arisen in other jurisdictions, where 
dissensions exist, and the chapter officers were not in 
harmony. 

Grand Matron. — 1895, Emogene "Williams; 1896, 
Mary F. Phillips; 1897, Hattie E. Davis; 1898, 
Sarah E. Ballon; 1899, Hannah F. Aldrich; 1900, 
Lizzie F. Chase. 

Grand Patron.— 1895, S. Penrose Williams; 1896, 
Elisha P. Clark, M. D.; 1897, Frederick E. Phillips; 
1898, Fred W. Arnold; 1899, John M. Nye; 1900, 
Frank N. Cook. 

Grand Secretary. — 1895, Hattie E. Davis; 1896- 
1900, S. Penrose Williams. 

SOUTH DAKOTA. 

Brother Macoy granted a charter for a chapter at 
Vermillion in July, 1871, but it did not survive. The 
first chapter chartered by the General Grand Chapter 
was Queen Esther No. 1, at Mitchell, February 4, 
1882, but before the convention met to organize the 
grand chapter, this chapter and Black Hills No. 
2, Rapid City, had become dormant, and Evergreen 
No. 3, Madison, surrendered its charter in February, 



SOUTH DAKOTA. 



307 



1889. The call for the convention was issued by 
Vesta Chapter No. 4, Watertown, and it met at 
Watertown, July 10, 1889, the six active chapters be- 
ing represented, all of which still survive. By the 
constitution adopted the Grand Matron was made the 
executive head of the grand chapter, the per capita 
dues were fixed at twenty-five cents per annum, and 
a special assessment of fifty cents per capita was lev- 
ied. Mattie C. Crane was elected Grand Matron, but- 
declined the honor. 

The constitution as amended in 1891 made the first 
six elective officers of any grand chapter upder the 
jurisdiction of the General Grand Chapter who affili- 
ate with any chapter in South Dakota, permanent 
members of the grand chapter. In 1895 the Grand 
Matron issued an appeal for the relief of the widow 
of a master mason of one of the South Dakota lodges, 
and the chapters responded to the extent of $77.50, 
and the grand chapter appropriated fifty dollars for 
the same object. The floral work was recommended 
for the use of subordinate chapters in 1896, and dis- 
trict conventions were 

inaugurated in 1898. ,^S^.-.?.£^ 

The same year the 
grand chapter appro- 
priated one hundred 
dollars as a nucleus 
for the founding of 
a masonic home, and 
the chapters contrib- 
uted $62.50, the pro- 
ceeds of entertain- 
ments given for that object. The vocal star 
was rendered "in a manner beyond criticism," at the 
annual meting in 1898, and all copies of the secret 
work were ordered returned to the Grand Secretarv. 




308 SOUTH DAKOTA. 

The grand chapter by invitation attended the ban- 
quet given the grand lodge by St. John's lodge ~No. 
1, of Yorkton, at the celebration of its quarto-cen- 
tennial, June 13, 1899. The memorial service was 
rendered at the annual meetings in 1899 and 1900. 
In 1900 the grand lodge sent greetings to the grand 
chapter; and a code of etiquette, etc., similar to that 
of Minnesota, was adopted. 

Of the sixty-three chapters in this state' since the or- 
ganization of the grand chapter, sixty survive, all of 
which reported in 1900. The grand chapter has had 
the services of but one Grand Secretary. Total re- 
ceipts, $7,087.94; disbursements, $5,927.40; balance, 
$1,160.54. 

Decisions. — Candidates should repeat the signs 
while taking degrees. 1892. 

A member can not dimit from a chapter, and join 
one in another town, without a change of residence. 
1894. 

There is hereby appropriated not exceeding two 
cents for each member borne upon the rolls of the 
chapters in this jurisdiction, whenever the General 
Grand Chapter shall levy such contributions as in its 
judgment shall be required to assist in defraying its 
expenses. 1895. 

A motion that certain members be a committee is 
out of order. The "Worthy Matron appoints all com- 
mittees. 1897. 

It is the sense of this grand chapter that banquets 
and gratuitous entertainments during its annual ses- 
sions be dispensed with. 1898. 

It is customary to open the bible on the altar at 
Matthew ii. 1900. 

Grand Matron.— 1889, May H. Monks; 1890, 
Florence M. Mudgett; 1891, L. Leslie McBride; 
1892, Lurancy W. Norton; 1893, Mary Brown; 1894, 
Sarah J. Clark; 1895, Hattie Downey; 1896, Fan- 
nie E. Koddle; 1897, J. E. Herried; 1898, Jennie E. 



TENNESSEE— TEXAS. 309 

Bradley; 1899, * Jennie A. Shirk; 1900, Margaret V. 
Hitchcock. 

Grand Patron.— 1889, J. H. Baldwin; 1890-1892, 
George A. Pettigrew; 1893, Alfred J. Poznansky; 
1894, Prank A. Brown; 1895, John Banks; 1896, 
Martin G. Carlisle; 1897, Arthur C. Phillips; 1898, 
Geo. "W. Snow; 1899, Kobert P. Kerr; 1900, 
Philip Lawrence. 

Grand Secretary.— 1889-1900, A. M. McCallister. 

TENNESSEE. 

Brother Macoy chartered a chapter at Nashville in 
1874, and subsequently two others in the state but 
none of thein survived. The first chapter chartered 
by the General Grand Chapter was Esther No. 1 at 
Gladdice, April 30, 1880, and chapters were char- 
tered at Galliher's Mills, and Fayetteville in 1880 and 
1881, but all of them became dormant, so that when 
a chapter was organized in March, 1893, at East 
Nashville, it was given the number 1, and since that 
eleven others have been chartered, one of which has 
become dormant. The convention to organize the 
grand chapter met in Nashville, October 18, 1900, 
having eleven subordinates. 

Grand Matron, Amanda F. Williams; Grand Pa- 
tron, W. P. Poster; Grand Secretary, Mary R. 
Forbes. 

TEXAS. 

The order is said to have been introduced into this 
state in 1870, and five charters were sold therein by 
brother Macoy. The first chapter chartered by the 
General Grand Chapter was friendship No. 1, Dallas, 
June 22, 1877, which was organized July 24. Twelve 
other chapters were chartered up to May 22, 1884. 
The call for the convention to organize the grand 
chapter was issued by members of Fort Worth Chap- 

*Deceased. 



310 TEXAS. 

ter Kb. 8, and it met in Fort Worth, May 5, 1884, 
when four chapters were: represented, and the organi- 
zation of a grand chapter was proceeded with, but it 
was not recognized by the General Grand Chapter 
until July 20, when the action of the convention had 
been endorsed by an additional chapter. Elmira 
Foley, Past Most Worthy Grand Matron, was pres- 
ent and rendered valuable assistance. The grand 
chapter membership was made to include not only 
Past Matrons and Past Patrons, but Past. Associate 
Matrons, also. 

Concerning the condition of the grand chapter in 
1889, the incoming Grand Secretary said: 

The committee on foreign correspondence of the 
Grand Chapter of Indiana in its review of the printed 
proceedings of the sixth annual meeting of the grand 
chapter for 1888, says "No money appears to have 
been paid to the Grand Treasurer; no statistics given; 
and proceedings indicate that the affairs of the grand 
chapter are in a chaotic condition." If this appeared 
to be the condition of our grand chapter in 1888, it 
was certainly in a much worse condition in 1889, 
when but six chapters were: represented, and but two 
of the grand officers were; present; even the Grand 
Secretary being absent, and only a skeleton report 
was submitted by him, with no statistics whatever. 
* * The late Grand Secretary did not furnish even 
the addresses of Secretaries of live chapters. We had 
to find out what we could, and stumble along as best 
we could in the dark, until by main strength we 
forced our way to the light. 

The finance committee found $140.55 due from the 
Grand Secretary, and that 

With sixty out of ninety odd chapters, there is no 
entry whatever, not a debit nor a credit, nothing to 
say if chartered or not, or if demised or not; nothing 
but blank pages. * * Your committee find it 
utterly impossible; to report upon the standing of the 
several chapters, and as to their indebtedness. 



TEXAS. 



311 



But the condition was bravely faced, and effective 
steps taken to put the order on a firmer foundation. 
The floral work, and the chapter of sorrow by Addie 
C. S. Engle were adopted for the use of subordinate 
chapters. In 1891 Grand Chapter No. 1 of Minne- 
sota was recognized, "as the only legal grand chapter, 
and all communication forbidden with the pretended 
grand chapter JN"o. 2, or with any subordinate chap- 
ter, or individuals working under the pretended juris- 
diction of that illegal body." 

In 1892 the thirty-first of July, the day of Bob 
Morris's death, was 
designated as me- 
morial day ; the 
state was divided 
into fifty-five dis- 
tricts;, but the num- 
ber was reduced to 
ten in 1896. The 
grand chapter made 
the experiment of 
allowing thirteen 
dollars to any dep- 
uty .organizing a, chapter, the result of which 
was stated by the Grand Matron in 1893: 

Careful investigation shows that in many cases un- 
due influence has been brought to bear upon a com- 
munity of masons; to organize: a chapter. Often a 
charter and a few rituals had been sold them, an 
exorbitant fee charged for organizing, and the so- 
called, grand officer had gone on his way rejoicing. 
There was no exemplification of the work, and no 
careful, conscientious explanation of the beauties of 
its teachings which appeal so strongly to the sympa- 
thetic soul of woman. Small wonder is it not, that 
grim death followed in the footsteps of such official 
(officious) work? 




312 TEXAS. 

In 1894 all copies of the secret work were ordered 
called in, the delegates to the grand chapter to be in- 
structed in same by the "committee of the work." In 
1899 the; committee reported that seventy-five persons 
had been instructed in the secret work during the 
meeting. The Grand Matron was made the executive 
head in 1895, and a test oath was adopted; the Gen- 
eral Grand Chapter was memorialized to publish a 
monitor of the work and the secret work separately. 
In 1896 seventy-five dollars were appropriated for the 
relief of a Past Grand Patron, one hundred dollars in 
1897, one hundred and twenty-five dollars; in 1898, 
and ninety-five dollars were contributed by persona] 
subscriptions for the same purpose. In 1897 the 
Grand Secretary was ordered to issue a circular to ill 
chapters and lodges warning them against "masonic 
pirates," who were communicating the degrees with- 
out authority. 

In 1898 it was 

Resolved, that in future this grand chapter will not 
accept or attend any banquet given by the subordi- 
nate chapter in the city where the annual convoca- 
tion is held. 

Notwithstanding this the grand chapter attended 
and partook of "an elegant lunch" served by the local 
chapter at its convocation in 1899. 

In 1900 a Past Grand Matron's jewel was pre- 
sented the retiring Grand Matron, and a diamond 
scarf pin to the Grand Patron. 

The Galveston flood of September 8, while it took 
but three members of the order, brought distress 
upon many others, and the need of assistance was 
promptly recognized by members of the order gen- 
erally. The grand officers were prompt and efficient 
in meeting the emergency, issuing appeals both to 
the chapters of Texas, and to the various grand chap- 



TEXAS. 313 

ters, which were responded to up to the first of Jan- 
uary, 1901, as follows: 

Arkansas = . . $45.25 

California, 72 chapters 1,351.10 

District of Columbia 185.00 

Illinois, Grand chapter 100.00 

Illinois, L. J. Pitkin 5.00 

Indiana 580.00 

Iowa 842.23 

Kansas, 1 chapter 10.00 

Maryland 39.85 

Massachusets, li. E. Ewing 15.00 

Minnesota, 1 chapter 2.00 

Missouri, Grand chapter 50.00 

Missouri, 1 chapter 10.00 

Nebraska 259.00 

Nevada, 6 chapters 75.00 

New Jersey, Grand chapter 50.00 

New York 548.35 

North Dakota, Grand chapter 50.00 

Ohio, Grand chapter 50.00 

Oregon 335.00 

Pennsylvania, 1 chapter 10.00 

Rhode Island 78.25 

South Dakota 203.88 

Texas, Grand chapter 500.00 

Texas 370.55 

Vermont, Grand chapter 100.00 

"Washington, 1 chapter 10.00 

"Wisconsin 316.50 

Wyoming, Grand chapter 30.00 

Total $6,221.96 

In 1891 a committee was appointed to ask the 
grand lodge to appoint a similar committee to co- 
operate with it, "the duty of the joint committee be- 
ing to 'arrange a plan whereby the Order of the East- 
ern Star may assist the masons in building and man- 
aging a masonic home," in response to which the 
grand lodge accepted "with gratitude the proffered 



314 TEXAS. 

co-operation of the grand chapter in providing a fund 
for the establishment of our masonic widows' and or- 
phans' home, and pledge to our good women the hearty 
good will and assistance of the masons of Texas in this 
grand work." 

Some two hundred and forty dollars were contrib- 
uted in 1892 and 1893, where the matter seems to 
have rested until 1898, when ten per cent, of the 
gross receipts of the grand chapter, amounting to 
$185.65, were appropriated to the support of the 
home, and the same per cent was promised for future 
years, "provided that a lady member of this grand 
chapter be appointed a member of the board of trus- 
tees." 
■ In 1900 it was 

Resolved, that $500 is hereby appropriated toward 
building a home for aged masons, and that hereafter 
twenty-five per cent, of the gross receipts of this grand 
chapter be appropriated annually for said purpose. 

It was also noted that 

The grand conimandery Knights Templar of Texas 
has appropriated to this grand chapter the sum of one 
hundred dollars as a nucleus for this purpose. 

There have been 268 chapters on the roll of the 
grand chapter, 85 of which reported in 1900. 

Decisions. — All master masons in good standing, 
members of some lodge, and their wives, daughters, 
mothers, widows and sisters, who* have attained the 
age of eighteen years are eligible 1 to membership in 
this order. Amended in 1884 by adding: provided 
that daughters and sisters be unmarried; and pro- 
vided that those who have availed themselves of the 
degrees shall not be deprived of their privileges a® 
members. Provisos repealed in 1889. 

A lady whose son is a master mason, but whose 
husband is yet living, and not a mason, is not entitled 
to the degrees, because of the fact that a "wife is sub- 



TEXAS. 315 

ject to her husband so long as they both live," is no 
more the teaching of the holy word than of our order. 
1887. 

A brother is not entitled to aid from a chapter. 
1886. 

Should an applicant for membership accompanied 
by a dimit be rejected, the applicant may apply to 
the same or any other chapter, provided such rejected 
applicant shall not be elected to membership without 
the consent of the chapter rejecting the application, 
1890. 

The floral work may be given publicly. 1893. 

Any one of the degree passes may be used as a pass 
word in opening a chapter, in place of the cabalistic 
word. 1899. 

The suspension of a brother from the blue lodge 
for non-payment of dues does not suspend him from 
the order. 1899. 

A petition can not be balloted on until the brother 
on the investigating committee reports. 1899. 

The Worthy Matron can administer the obligation 
if necessary. 1899. 

None but Past Matrons and Past Patrons are eligi- 
ble to office in the grand chapter. 1899. 

Objection after ballot applies to petition for affilia- 
tion. 1900. 

Grand Matron.— 1884, E. J. Talbot; 1885-1887, 
Virginia Tucker (Essex); 1888-1890, Lizzie M. Had- 
ley; 1891, *Belle de K. Moon; 1892, Laura B. Hart; 
1893, Pauline C. Harris; 1894, Rachel M. Swaim; 
1895, Sadie A. Hoskins; 1896, Kate Y. Birch; 1897, 
Jennie S. Randolph; 1898, Ree T. Alvord; 1899, 
Amelia A. Garrison; 1900, Agnes Y. Young. 

Grand Patron.— 1884, "W. L. Holt; 1885, Perry 
Hawkins; 1886, P. H. Stephens; 1887-1888, *J. J. 
Kendrick; 1889, J. W. Ellender; 1890, Stephen 
Gould; 1891, A. P. Hicks; 1892, J. L. Miller; 1893, 
Tom Murrah; 1894, D. Ludlow; 1895, L. S. Garri- 
son; 1896, J. K. Bowman; 1897, Jesse T. Atchison; 

*Deceased. 



316 VERMONT. 

1898, Nelson M. Karney ; 1899, W. S. Hoskins; 1900, 
W. S. Hellyer. 

Grand Secretary.— 1884, E. 0. McPhail; 1885- 
1888, J. K. Ashby; 1889, Stephen Gould; 1890, Jen- 
nie Cassil; 1891-1893, J. D. Slawson; 1894-1900, 
Laura B. Hart. 

VERMONT. 

The first chapter was Mt. Anthony No. 1, Ben- 
nington, organized in July, 1869. The call for the 
convention to organize the grand chapter was issued 
by Electa Chapter No. 6, Brandon, and the conven- 
tion was held at Brandon, November 12, 1873, five of 
the six chapters in the state being represented, one by 
a, proxy not a member of the chapter represented. 
The constitution of the Grand Chapter of New York 
was adopted, with necessary changes. 

In 1875 a committee was appointed "to prepare a 
uniform work and lectures to be used in this state/' 
which reported in 1876 "recommending that used in 
the state of New York" (Adoptive Kite), and the rec- 
ommendation was concurred in, and one hundred 
copies ordered to be procured, but in 1877 the Grand 
Patron reported that the committee, on going to New 
York, "came back with a copy of a new ritual (Ma- 
coy's Bitual), published by authority of the Grand 
Chapter of New York," and the same was adopted. 

In 1879 it was 

Resolved, that a committee of three be appointed to 
take into consideration the propriety of revising our 
ritual, and to recommend such work as, in their judg- 
ment, is best calculated to promote the good of the 
order. 

This committee reported in 1880 that 

Both the Macoy ritual and that of the General 
Grand Chapter possess merits, and we deem the mat- 



VERMONT. 



317 



ter of too much importance to decide upon a recom- 
mendation. 

And it was 

Resolved, that the matter be postponed until the 
next convocation, and that subordinate: chapters in- 
struct their representatives as to their wishes. 

In 1881 a motion to adopt the General Grand 
Chapter ritual was not concurred in. In 1888 it being 
found that the Queen of the: South ritual was con- 
tained in the only Macoy rituals that could be ob- 
tained, the use of any ritual or degree not formally 
adopted by this grand chapter was interdicted, and 

The Grand Secretary was instructed to request 
brother Macoy, the publisher of our ritual, not to sell 
rituals in this grand jurisdiction unless the requisition 
has the impression seal of this grand chapter, or one 
of its subordinates. 

In 1899 the Grand Secretary was instructed to 
"furnish all subordinate chapters with a copy of an 
authorized syllabus," 
but later the Grand Lec- 
turer was directed to 
"furnish all Worthy 
Patrons of subordinate 
chapters one manu- 
script copy of the sylla- 
bus of the work upon 
application of the 
Worthy Patrons under 
the seal of the chapter, 
the same to be kept by them, and transmitted to their 
successors in office." 

In 1891 the Grand Patron said: 

I feel that the time has come for this grand body 
to have a ritual of its own, and I would therefore 
recommend that a committee be appointed to prepare 
and present a ritual for use in this jurisdiction, 




318 VERMONT. 

I But the matter was "dropped until the financial con- 
dition of the grand chapter will warrant further ac- 
tion.' 7 In 1892 the Grand Secretary called attention 
to the fact that the only (Macoy) rituals obtainable 
contained the Amaranth degree, and were "publicly 
sold in book stores, as the original and only Eastern 
Star manual," and a committee was appointed 

With full power to make an arrangement for the 
printing of a ritual for this jurisdiction, separate and 
distinct from the spurious orders or degrees, and if 
unable to make such arrangement, that they have au- 
thority to prepare and print a ritual for the use of 
this jurisdiption. 

In 1893 this committee's report was adopted as 
follows : 

We recommend that if suitable and satisfactory 
arrangements can be made with, the General Grand 
Chapter, that purchases of rituals for all new chap- 
ters be made from the General Grand Chapter; that 
permission be granted to any chapter to substitute the 
General Grand Chapter ritual for the Macoy, and that 
until some definite action as to the adoption of a ritual 
by this grand chapter other than the one heretofore 
adopted, any of the chapters within this jurisdiction 
may use either the Macoy or General Grand Chapter 
ritual as they may determine, or may use the ritual 
of the General Grand Chapter, except as to the his- 
tory of the five degrees, and, as to that, may, if they 
desire, substitute our present ritual. 

In 1895 the Grand Secretary reported that nine- 
teen chapters were using the General Grand Chapter 
ritual, and five the Macoy. At the present time; every 
chapter is using the General Grand Chapter ritual, al- 
though some still adhere to the old customs in the se- 
cret work. 

In 1876 sisters were exempted from dependence 
upon the continued good standing of the brothers 



VERMONT. 819 

through, whom they acquired membership. In 1879 
it was ordered 

That members seeking admission to the convoca- 
tions of this grand chapter shall be required to give 
at the door one of the passes of the order, which 
shall be such pass as may be designated annually by 
the Grand Patron, and the same shall be considered 
sufficient evidence that they are entitled to be present. 

A grand chapter of sorrow was held in June, 1880, 
in memory of Josie S. "W. Stillson, Grand Secretary, 
and Mary A. Amsden, Grand Conductress. In 1887 
it was ordered that "all members of this grand chap- 
ter shall wear appropriate jewels, and that subordinate 
chapter officers shall wear their proper jewels." The 
state was divided into seven districts, and Deputy 
Grand Patrons appointed in them. At the opening 
of the grand chapter in 1890 this original welcome 
was sung: 

We welcome you from far and near 

To Lakeside Chapter's hall ; 
To Memphremagog's rural shore, 

We welcome one and all, 
Where steamers ply the waters deep 

And sportsmen spread their sail, 
Where lilies white bedeck the waves 

And healthful winds prevail. 

Chorus— Sisters of the star we welcome you, 
Brothers of the star we welcome you, 
To Memphremagog's rural shore. 

The red-man roamed these regions wild 

One hundred years ago, 
Where twinkles now the Eastern Star, 

And where we welcome you ; 
And where the snow-white gull flies o'er 

The fisherman's canoe, 
We greet you, members of the star, 

And warmly welcome you. 

From mountain slopes of old Vermont, 

In verdure clad always, 
From nestling hamlets in the vales, 

Or cottage by the way, 
We welcome you from far and near 

To Lakeside Chapter's hall, 
To Memphremagog's rural shore 

We welcome one and all. 



320 VERMONT. 

Star officers were first appointed in the grand chap- 
ter in 1891; and in 1895 it was "made compulsory 
on the deputies in the several districts to appoint a 
district convention to be held with, some chapter in 
the district once a year/' 

In 1900 the Mystic Tie was given before the grand 
chapter by Coral Chapter, concerning which the grand 
chapter proceedings say 

The Mystic Tie is drawn upon lines masonic and, in 
this characteristic, is quite different from the other 
addenda common to the order. The literary and sym- 
bolic values of the exercise are exceptionally perfect, 
as one might suppose who was acquainted with the 
author, but it appeals more to the masonic sense than 
to Eastern Star sentiment, and therefore, has not been 
as well received in Vermont as was the Pilgrims. It 
is, however, a very difficult degree to present, and on 
this occasion, was given in a most creditable manner. 

Helen M. "Whitney has served the grand chapter 
as Grand Treasurer continuously since 1875, and Olive 
J. Stowell served as correspondent fifteen years. In 
1900 the attendance at grand chapter was fifteen 
grand officers, sixteen past officers, eleven district dep- 
uties, and sixty-nine representatives of thirty-one chap- 
ters. Cash in the treasury after paying expenses of 
convocation, $1,438.90. There have been forty-three 
chapters chartered, thirty-five of which survive. 

Decisions. — None but a past officer, or one who 
has been elected to the office of Associate Matron, is 
eligible to the office of Worthy Matron. 

A dimitted member residing in another state can 
not affiliate with a chapter in Vermont. 1900. 

Grand Matron.— 1873-1874, Lizzie D. Kose; 1875- 
1876, Mary L. Scranton; 1877-1878, "Mary C. Dom- 
ing; 1879-1880, Eliza G. Cole; 1881, E. G. E. Whit- 
comb; 1882-1883, Susa S. Bass; 1884, Flora E. Havi- 
land; 1885, Susa S. Bass; 1886-1887, Flora E. Havi- 
land; 1888, J. H. Loring; 1889-1890, Sarah J. Fair- 

*Deceased. 



WASHINGTON. 321 

man; 1891-1892, Janet P. Blackmer; 1893-1894, 
Minnie A. Parsons; 1895-1896, Eugenia M. Pettee; 
1897, Ida I. Wing; 1898, Mary L. Paine; 1899, Olive 
J. Stowell; 1900, Elma M. Miller. 

Grand Patron.— 1873-1874, Will F. Lewis; 1875- 
1876, A. L. Robinson; 1877, *E. J. Whitcomb; 1878- 
1879, W. W. Culver; 1880-1882, Henry L. Stillson; 
1883-1884, E. J. McWaine; 1885, *E. 1ST. Harris; 
1886-1887, ¥m, G. MoClintock; 1888, D. K. Sim- 
onds; 1889-1891, James E. Curran; 1892-1893, J. T. 
Gleason; 1894-1895, George W. Wing; 1896-1897, 
F. W. Baldwin; 1898-1899, J. H. McLoud; 1900. J. 
S. Weeks. 

Grand Secretary.— 1873-1874, S. A. Giffin; 1S75, 
S. J. Young; 1876, Helen J. Hatch; 1877, F. R. 
Cobb; 1878-1879, *Josie S. W. Stillson; 1880, Olive 
J. Stowell; 1881, Mary S. Scranton; 1882, Hattie 
Bradford; 1883-1900, Henry L. Stillson. 

WASHINGTON. 

Brother Macoy chartered a. chapter at Vancouver, 
in December, 1869, but the first chapter under the 
authority of the General Grand Chapter was organ- 
ized at Goldendale as Evergreen No. 1, November 
12, 1881. The call for the convention to organize the 
grand chapter was issued by Fern Chapter No. 7, Ta- 
coma, and the convention met at Port Townsend, 
June 11, 1888, with all the eight chapters represented, 
of which six still survive; the constitution and laws 
of the Grand Chapter of Iowa were adopted with 
necessary changes. It made Past Patrons and Past 
Matrons members of the grand chapter, and the Grand 
Patron its executive head, but the Grand Matron was 
given the executive powers in 1890. 

The grand chapter by invitation of the grand lodge 
attended the ceremonies of laying the corner-stone of 

^Deceased. 21 



322 WASHINGTON. 

the masonic hall at Ellensburg, June 10, 1890. In 
1897 the grand chapter provided for a permanent 
committee of three "who shall exhibit and explain the 
si iins at this and each succeeding communication of 
this grand chapter, and that the signs as exhibited by 
said committee shall be the adopted signs in this juris- 
diction." 

A special communication of the grand chapter was 
held at Seattle, May 8, 1898, to attend the funeral of 
Mary C. Fen-ton, Past Grand Matron, the funeral serv- 
ices being conducted under the direction of the Grand 
Matron. The Grand Matrons have generally been 
very diligent and thorough in their official visitations, 
and the grand chapter has always exercised indepen- 
dence and dignity in dealing with all questions of im- 
port. Its reports on correspondence are among the 
best that have been presented to any grand chapter. 

In 1898 the Grand Matron reported having granted 
a dispensation to a chapter to confer the degrees out- 
side the chapter room, and at Steptoe Butte, and to 
remove the charter for that purpose, but the grand 
chapter decided that the Grand Matron had no author- 
ity to grant a dispensation to a chapter to hold a meet- 
ing outside the town or city specified in its charter, or 
to authorize a chapter to hold its meeting within the 
territorial jurisdiction of another chapter. The grand 
chapter also declared 

We do not see the necessity for making any change 
in the ritual. We believe the ritual should remain 
forever unchanged. * * * The secret work of 
the order should never be printed by the General 
Grand Chapter except in cypher. 

The grand chapter has abolished the grand repre- 
sentative system. It would be difficult for any one 
to demonstrate that the order has been in any way 
benefited by it, and the Grand Chapter of Washington 
will not materially suffer by doing without it. Con- 



WASHINGTON. 323 

cerning the exemplification of the work before the 
grand chapter in 1899, by Electa Chapter JSTo. 20, of 
Spokane, the record says: 

Truly this is a wonderful country of magnificent 
distances easily overcome, when a full corps of officers 
were willing to travel over four hundred miles to 
exemplify the work before the grand chapter. 

Jewels were purchased for all Past Grand Matrons 
at an expense of twenty dollars each. The grand 
chapter also declared: 

The Grand Chapter of Washington has never au- 
thorized any one to represent it in the General Grand 
Chapter, and under its constitution could not con- 
sistently do so, and any person from this state who is 
admitted to a seat in the General Grand Chapter must 
act in his or her individual capacity, and not as a rep- 
resentative of this grand chapter. 

And in 1900 the independence of the grand chap- 
ter was set forth in a declaration which was laid over 
one year for final action. The two chapters in 
Seattle reported that they had $122, and other sub- 
scriptions were made to the amount of $150, toward 
a masonic home fund, and the grand chapter ap- 
pointed a committee to provide ways and mean?, and 
to co-operate with a like committee of the grand lodge. 
Of the sixty-three chapters that have been chartered 
dj the grand chapter fifty-eight are still active. 

Decisions. — The chairs of star officers should face 
the east. 1890. 

The wife of a dimitted mason is eligible to the de- 
grees. 1892. 

When used, the floral work is a part of the initia- 
tion ceremony. Master masons not members of the 
order can not be admitted to witness it. 1893. 

A member of a chapter suspended for one year by 
his blue lodge for unmasonic conduct is in good 
standing in the chapter if no charges have been pre- 
ferred against him therein. 1895. 



324 WASHINGTON. 

The Grand Chapter of Washington does not recog- 
nize the right or authority of the General Grand 
Chapter to assess or collect dues from a sovereign 
grand chapter. 1895. 

Suspension for non-payment of dues does not bar an 
applicant from receiving the degrees. 1896. This 
was modified in 1897, by the statement that 

In the state of Washington a master mason can not 
be suspended from all the rights and privilege© of ma- 
sonry for non-payment of dues, but is suspended from 
lodge privileges only. * * But if the sentence for non- 
payment of dues under the laws of a grand lodge in 
another state is suspension from all the rights and 
privileges of masonry, one so suspended is not in good 
standing in that state nor in the state of Washington, 
and hence is not an eligible petitioner for the degrees 
of the order. 

The Grand Matron shall not issue dispensations for 
any purpose except those specifically provided for in 
the constitution or by-laws of the grand chapter. 
1899. 

Grand Matron.— 1888, *Hannah Bellinger; 1889- 
1890, Helen E. Edmiston; 1891, Helen E. Shannon; 
1892, K. A. Palmer; 1893, Winnifred B. Hare; 1894, 
Mary A. Amos; 1895, Alice M. Taylor; 1896, *Mary 
C. Eenton; 1897, Lou Jordan; 1898, Florence G. Mc- 
Lean; 1899, Emma P. Chadwick; 1900, Emma Col- 
well Ennis. 

Grand Patron.— 1888, J. M. Taylor; 1889-1890, 
Edd E. Hare; 1891, *J. E. Edmiston; 1892, E. H. 
Van Patten; 1893, H. W. Tyler; 1894, Walter L. 
Darby; 1895, *G. D. Shaver; 1896, M. E. Reed; 
1897, Yancey C. Blalock; 1898, H. L. Kennan; 1899, 
Fred J. Elsensohn; 1900, Archibald W. Prater. 

Grand Secretary.— 1888, D. H. Shaw; 1889, *B. 
W. Coiner; 1890-1891, Charles McCutcheon; 1892- 
1900, Libbie J. Demorest. 

*Deeeased. 



Wisconsin. 325 

WISCONSIN. 
The following is from the annual address of J. P. 
C. Oottrill, Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin to 
the grand lodge in 1875, the recommendations of 
which were unanimously adopted by that body: 

In July, 1874, the masters of several of the subor- 
dinates applied to me by letter for advice and direc- 
tions, stating that they had received printed circulars 
addressed to their lodges from a person, whose name 
I omit here as he has since died, notifying them that 
he would visit their lodges on certain days designated, 
in order to organize what he termed chapters of the 
Eastern Star. I gave the matter immediate attention 
and thorough investigation. I found that an organiza- 
tion under a somewhat different name and like the 
proposed concern in some respects had existed and 
had been tolerated by the Grand Orient of France 
during the last century; but that it had decayed and 
died there. In somewhat different shape it appeared 
to have been revived in this country, and the effort was 
to import it into this jurisdiction, in order that its 
projector might put money in his purse. A personal 
interview with him brought from him the open — and, 
as it seemed to me, the dishonest — avowal that his 
object in disseminating it was to enable him the bet- 
ter and more conveniently to sell books, etc., that he 
was engaged in retailing. He stated that he cared 
nothing for it, but that meeting the brethren assem- 
bled together in one place and at their lodge rooms to 
hear him lecture and receive this new order, he was 
enabled thereby to sell his wares -more conveniently, 
and that he was thus saved the time and trouble of 
calling on each one separately. In short his object at 
the bottom was to sell his goods, to spend his evenings 
pleasantly at the profit to himself of $30 for each char- 
ter granted, which charter signed in blank he carried 
with him; and this he proposed to do> in the name of 
and as an attachment or appendage of freemasonry. 
I at once stated to him that his project could have 
from me only disapproval and discountenance; that I 
believe the sentiment of the grand ladge was against 
any such concern, and that our constitution and 



326 Wisconsin. 

standing regulations positively prohibited it. He 
assured me that he would abandon the business 
in this jurisdiction, but, feeling no especial con- 
fidence in any promises made by any man so un- 
worthy as I was- satisfied he was, I caused a circular to 
be issued to all subordinates calling their attention to 
the fact that by the constitution the conferring of 
honorary or side degrees in any lodge is entirely for- 
bidden. 

The above shows from contemporary records the 
manner and purpose of propagating the order under 
the auspices of the Supreme Grand Chapter, by at 
least some of its deputies. At the time: of this action 
the writer took occasion in his communications to the 
masonic press to endorse the action of the G-rand 
Master of Wisconsin, as he then believed and still be- 
lieves that such a mode of extending the order was 
more hurtful than helpful. This action of the grand 
lodge effectually barred the order from the state! until 
it had conquered many of the ill effects of the pro- 
fessional charter peddler, so that when, in 1890, the 
grand lodge adopted the report of its committee which 
follows, the order had virgin soil in which to be 
planted, and the history of the grand chapter, which is 
more brilliant than that of any other grand chapter in 
an equal period from its organization, fully demon- 
strates that the order owes a debt of gratitude to 
brother Cottrill. 

Your committee to whom was referred such of the 
Grand Master's address as related to the Order of the 
Eastern Star, beg leave to report: Your committee 
recommends that in all cases when the Grand Master 
shall deem it expedient to grant dispensations to en- 
able the Order of the Eastern Star to hold its chapter 
in a masonic lodge room, that such dispensation be 
granted without charge. 

And without exception, when a chapter has asked 
the privilege of meeting in a masonic lodge room, the 



Wisconsin. 327 

dispensation lias been granted. I think I make no 
mistake in saying that much of the credit for this fa- 
vorable action, and the subsequent prosperity of the 
order in the state are due to the late John W. Laflin, 
Grand Secretary of the grand lodge. 

The first chapter chartered was Honor 'No. 1, Stur- 
geon Bay, July 10, 1890, and nine others were or- 
ganized in the next seven months. The call for the 
convention to meet in Milwaukee, February 19, 1891, 
was issued by the three principal officers of Milwau- 
kee Chapter ~No. 2. The ten chapters then organized 
had a membership of 605, and eight of them were rep- 
resented in the convention by twenty-two delegates. 
The constitution adopted made Past Matrons and Past 
Patrons members of the grand chapter, and the Grand 
Matron its executive head, and fixed the per capita 
dues at twenty-five cents per annum. The grand offi- 
cers were installed by Nettie Eansford, Most Worthy 
Grand Matron, and Lorraine J. Pitkin, Right Worthy 
Grand Secretary, was present, as she has been at every 
meeting of this grand chapter, of which she is an 
honorary member. In the first year the number of 
chapters increased to twenty-nine. In 1892, June 
24 was designated as Eastern Star recreation day. In 
1894 the state was divided into districts, and district 
chapters held in each. The floral work was first ren- 
dered before the grand chapter in 1895. In 1897 the 
constitution was changed so that no Past Matron nor 
Past Patron, except those already members, acquired 
membership in the grand chapter by reason of their 
past honors; and the printed secret work was recalled 
and the same was issued in cypher. 

An incident of more than ordinary interest was the 
presentation to the grand chapter of a beautiful silk 
national flag by some of the Past Grand Matrons and 
Past Grand Patrons at the meeting in 1898. In re- 
sponse to an appeal issued by the Grand Matron in 



328 Wisconsin. 

1898 the chapters contributed $234.60 to provide a 
home for an aged widow of a master mason, and when 
she died in 1899 the balance of her funeral expense® 
was paid by the grand chapter. Subordinate chapters 
were directed to provide their delegates with badge® 
containing name, number and location of the chapter. 
In 1899 the vocal star was rendered before the grand 
chapter in a most impressive manner by Bloomington 
chapter. A special per capita assessment of five cents 
was levied in 1900. In 1899 the town of 'New Kich- 
mond being almost entirely destroyed by a tornado, 
the Grand Matron issued an appeal for the relief of 
members of the order suffering therefrom, to which 
the chapters responded to the amount of $1,192.76 in 
cash, besides other contributions. 

In 1893 a committee was appointed to consider the 
subject of establishing a masonic widows' and orphans 7 
home. In 1894 the committee reported that it had 
heard from fifty-five chapters, and that only one or- 
phan had been found to whom such an institution 
would be a place of refuge, but the grand chapter de- 
clared its readiness to give the movement substantial 
aid when the masonic brothers should inaugurate it. 
The matter made no further progress until 1900, when 
generous individual contributions were made toward 
starting a home fund, through the efforts of Nellie M. 
Towner, Past Grand Matron. 

This is the only grand chapter of any age that has 
had but one Grand Secretary and one Grand Treasurer 
from its start. They have received $15,645; and the 
grand treasurer, Lucille "W. Parker, has paid out $13,- 
944, and holds a balance of $1,701.24. There were in 
attendance upon the grand chapter in 1900, eighteen 
grand officers, nine past grand officers, forty-four past 
officers, and two hundred and forty representatives, a 
total of 311. There have been 119 chapters organ- 
ized, 117 of which are still active. 



Wisconsin. 329 

Decisions. — Twenty candidates may be initiated at 
once. Proceed in the usual manner until the star 
work, which may be exemplified by one or two of the 
candidates, the remainder being seated, after which 
the ceremony may be completed with all of the candi- 
dates. 1892. 

Should any officer fail to fill his or her position for 
four consecutive meetings without satisfactory excuse, 
said office shall be declared vacant. 1892. 

The Grand Patron is fully authorized to deputize 
the Grand Matron to organize subordinate chapters. 
1892. 

A petitioner, although unable to read or write, is 
eligible to the degrees. 1893. 

The cabalistic word should be taken at the opening 
of a chapiter. 1893. 

A chapter can appropriate its funds for any pur- 
pose it may deem desirable. 1896. 

An applicant for membership through affiliation 
may be elected by a four-fifths vote of the members 
present. 1897. 

The floral work may be given in public, omitting 
anything that refers to our secret work. 1898. 

The vocal star should not be given in public. 1900. 

It is proper to use any of the degree passes as a 
pass-word — this is preferable to the cabalistic word. 
1900. 

Grand Matron. — 1891, Adency Irons; 1892, Mary 
H. Martin; 1893, EmmaE. Herrick; 1894, Emma R. 
Eriend; 1895, Martha D. Ross; 1896, Annie Phillips; 
1897, Nellie M. Towner; 1898, Ella S. Washburn; 
1899, Elizabeth Little; 1900, Helen M. Budd. 

Grand Patron. — 1891, Wm. A. Lawrence; 1892, 
Albert A. Hinman; 1893, Daniel Webster; 1894, 
Wm. W. Perry; 1895, Jonathan H. Evans; 1896, C. 
M. Hutchinson; 1897, Fred Ring; 1898, Wm. A. 
Wyse; 1899, C. S. Stockwell; 1900, David H. 
Wright. 

Grand Secretary.— 1891-1900, Helen M. Laflin. 



330 WYOMING— UNORGANIZED STATES. 

WYOMING. 

The Grand Chapter of New York chartered Alpha 
Chapter No. 1, at Laramie, December 24, 1879, but it 
surrendered its charter and took one from the General 
Grand Chapter, August 5, 1880. The convention to 
organize the grand chapter was called by the Most 
"Worthy Grand Patron, and met in Casper, Septem- 
ber 14, 1898; six of the eight chapters being repre- 
sented. The constitution adopted made the Grand 
Matron the executive head and fixed the per capita 
dues at twenty-five cents per annum, and made 
the then Past Matrons and Past Patrons perma- 
nent members of the grand chapter. A public instal- 
lation of the grand officers was held in connection 
with the installation of the officers of the masonic 
grand lodge. 

All the ten chapters that have had a place on the 
grand chapter roll are still borne thereon. 

Grand Matron.— 1898, Sarah A. Bristol; 1899, E. 
J. Pohrbaugh; 1900, Ada Miller. 

Grand Patron.— 1898, D. C. Abrams; 1899, J. P. 
Hoop; 1900, Henry Bunger. 

Grand Secretary.— 1898-1899, Laura E. McGrath 
1900, Inez M. Robinson. 

UNORGANIZED STATES AND TERRITORIES. 

Alabama. — The constellation at Stevenson had its 
charter endorsed by brother Macoy in May, 1869, but 
the chapter did not survive. The first chapter char- 
tered by the General Grand Chapter was Charity No. 
1, at Burleson, March 31, 1891, but the chapter is not 
active. Corona ~No. 2, at Corona, chartered June 30, 
1895, is the oldest active chapter. There have been 
fifteen chapters chartered by the General Grand Chap- 
ter, twelve of which are active, with a membership 
of 400. 



UNORGANIZED STATES. 331 

A grand chapter is to be organized in Alabama 
March 6, 1901. 

Florida. — Brother Macoy chartered a chapter at 
Jacksonville, in January , 1873, and it was active for 
a few years. On March 12, 1875, the Grand Patron 
of Mississippi issued an official document in which he 



I assume the responsibility of withdrawing any 
further recognition of the Supreme Grand Chapter, 
and in the name and behalf of the Grand Chapter of 
Mississippi assume jurisdiction of all unoccupied ter- 
ritory equidistant to other state grand chapters. We 
will take care of the chapter at Jacksonville until 
Florida shall have a state grand chapter of its own. 

On April 22, 1876, a charter was issued by the 
Grand Chapter of Mississippi for Esther Chapter No. 
37, at Cedar Creek. 

The General Grand Chapter chartered Evergreen 
Chapter No. 2, at Tampa, June 18, 1880, and later 
Magnolia No. 3, at Palatka, but neither of them sur- 
vived, SO' that when a petition was received from Green 
Cove Springs, a charter was issued, December 24, 
1889, to Electa Chapter, and it was given the number 
1. Magnolia, at Palatka, was re-chartered as No. 2, 
October 23, 1893, and reported sixty-one members in 
1896. Under the present series of numbers ten chap- 
ters have been chartered, six of which reported a mem- 
bership of 203 in 1900. 

Georgia. — Brother Macoy chartered a chapter at 
Covington, in December, 1875. The first chapter 
chartered by the General Grand Chapter was Lith- 
onia, No. 1, at Lithonia, September 21, 1891. In all 
fifteen chapters have been chartered by it, nine of 
which reported 375 members in 1900. A grand 
chapter was organized February 4, 1901. 

Hawaiian Islands. — Hawaii Chapter No. 1, at 



332 UNORGANIZED STATES. 

Hilo, was chartered March 15, 1899, with a member- 
ship of thirty-four. 

Idaho. — The first chapter was Mt, Idaho, at Mt. 
Idaho, chartered May 21, 1880, which soon became 
dormant; but Hugh Duncan Chapter No. 2, at Salmon 
City, chartered March 18, 1886, is an active and pros- 
perous chapter, as indeed are most of the eighteen 
chapters that have been organized, sixteen of them re- 
porting 671 members in 1900. 

Kentucky. — Brother Maeoy's first chapter was at 
Lancaster, in August, 1870. Subsequently he char- 
tered Queen Esther Chapter at Louisville, which ex- 
changed its charter for one from the General Grand 
Chapter, March 25, 1882, but after maintaining a 
struggling existence for some time, it succumbed. The 
oldest active chapter is Union. No. 2, DeKoven, char- 
tered June 14, 1889. Of the twenty-three chapters 
chartered only nine reported in 1900, with a member- 
ship of 331, 

Mississippi. — After the assumption of jurisdiction 
over the state by the General Grand Chapter, Natchez 
Chapter No. 1 was chartered, May 3, 1886, but it 
never became active. Winnie Davis chapter No>. 1, at 
Brookhaven, was chartered April 30, 1895, but fared 
no better than the first No. 1. There have been under 
the present series of numbers six chapters, of which 
three reported 145 members in 1900, the oldest being 
Long Branch No. 2, chartered February 2, 1897. 

New Mexico. — Queen Esther Chapter No*. 1, Raton, 
was chartered November 15, 1888, and has always 
been a successful chapter, as, indeed have been all the 
six chapters organized in the territory; all of them 
making reports in 1900, their membership being 316. 

North Carolina. — Brother Macoy issued a charter 
for a chapter at Kingston, in February, 1869. The 
first chartered by the General Grand Chapter was 



UNORGANIZED STATES. 333 

Hope No. 1 at Boone, April 15, 1882; but the hope 
was not realized, and it never made a report The 
second No 1 . 1 was at Center Grove, chartered July 30, 
1890, and followed in the footsteps of its predecessor. 
The only active chapter in the state is Stonewall No. 
2, located at Bobersonville, which has twenty-four 
members. 

South Carolina. — Brother Macoy chartered a chap- 
ter at Charleston, in April, 1873. Grate City No. 1, 
at Florence, chartered by the General Grand Chapter 
March 31, 1893, surrendered its charter February 25, 
1898. Vance No. 2, chartered October 8, 1895, is 
the oldest active chapter. In all eight chapters have 
been chartered, five of which reported 221 members 
in 1900. 

Utah. — Lynds No. 1, Salt Lake City, chartered June 
6, 1892, was the first organized in this domain of mor- 
monism. The order seems to be built upon substan- 
tial foundations, as all the four chapters are active 
and reported 239 members in 1900. 

Virginia. — Brother Macoy issued a charter for a 
chapter at Portsmouth, in January, 1872. The first 
chartered by the General Grand Chapter was Alpha 
No. 1 at "Woodstock, March 13, 1896, since which 
eight other chapters have been chartered, six of the 
nine reporting 196 members in 1900. 

West Virginia. — Miriam No. 1, Wheeling, was char- 
tered April 20, 1892, since which three other chap- 
ters have been chartered, three of the four reporting 
101 members in 1900. 

It is expected that grand chapters will be organized 
in Idaho, North Carolina, .New Mexico and 
South Carolina before the meeting of the General 
Grand Chapter, in Detroit in September, 1901. 



334 FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 

THE ORDER IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 

British Columbia. — Alpha Chapter ~No. l,Bossland, 
was chartered by the General Grand Chapter May 3, 
1899, with a membership of forty-two. 

India. — Pioneer Chapter E"o. 1, Benares, was char- 
tered by the General Grand Chapter October 30, 
1899, with a membership of eight. 

Scotland. — Brother Maooy chartered Victoria Chap- 
ter No. 1, Glasgow, September 30, 1874, and subse- 
quently three others, located at Holytown, Mother- 
well, and Edinburgh, all of which still maintain an 
existence, are fairly prosperous, and still use the Ma- 
coy ritual. 

John Crombie, at one time an active mason and 
Grand Warden of the grand lodge, published a blue 
lodge ritual, which he was ordered to recall, and not 
doing so, he was suspended from the fraternity. Sub- 
sequently he issued rituals of the other rites, including 
the Eastern Star (Crombie's Bitual), and, under the 
title of the Supreme Council of Bites, he chartered 
chapters, first in Aberdeen, and subsequently in In- 
verness, Ayr, Newmilne, Dundee and other points, 
but it is believed that they are all dormant, except 
those at Aberdeen and Dundee. 

The matter of organizing a grand chapter is being 
agitated, and it is hoped that the order in Scotland 
may become united, not only in itself, but with the 
order in this country. 

B. S. Brown, G. S. E., Supreme Grand Boyal Arch 
Chapter of Scotland, is a member of Victoria Chap- 
ter, and is actively interested in the building up of the 
order. 



ORDER OF THE AMARANTH. 335 

ORDER OF THE AMARANTH. 

In the published constitution it is claimed that the 
Supreme Council (No. 3) was perpetuated o>f which 
brother Macoy was the first Supreme Royal Patron, 
and Frances E. Johnson, the first Supreme Royal 
Matron. 

This body never issued any charters or other 
official documents before 1896, when a constitution 
was adopted and printed, which gave it the name of 
the Supreme Council of the Rite of Adoption of the 
"World, Order of the Amaranth. It is both a social 
and a beneficial order. By the revised ritual, the 
officers Truth, Faith, Wisdom and Charity are sta- 
tioned at the four corners of the altar, and the letters 
on the banner are changed to AMARANTH. 

It has a small number of courts in various 
parts of the country, under its immediate juris- 
diction. Any master mason, whether a member 
of the Order of the Eastern Star or not, is 
eligible to membership therein, but women must be 
members of that order before they can petition for the 
degree of the Amaranth. The Supreme Royal Ma- 
trons have been, after the first: Anna West; Eliza 
M. Demarest, and Ella A. Reed; and the Supreme 
Royal Patrons: F. W. Hancock; Frank G. Bassett; 
Wm. J. Duncan, and James T. Walker. 

The Grand Court of New York was organized in 
June, 1898, and it now has ten subordinate courts 
which are said to be flourishing. 

Grand Royal Matron.— 1898, Sarah A. E. Ben- 
nett; 1899, Marie Strandberg; 1900, Lucie A. Bud- 
dington. 

Grand Royal Patron. — 1898, Wm. J. Duncan; 
1899, Joseph Tripp; 1900, James T. Walker. 



336 STATISTICS. 

STATISTICS OF THE ORDER 

Table No. 1 shows the number of chapters and 
members in the different jurisdictions at quin- 
tennial periods, and the percentage of increase in 
number of chapters and members during the same. 

Table No. 2 shows the year of the order's in- 
troduction and the total number of chapters 
organized in the different states and territories; the 
present number of active chapters; the number of 
chapters that in any way have become dormant, either 
by forfeiting charter or failing to report; the percent- 
age that the dormant chapters bear to the total num- 
ber organized; the total membership; and the average 
number to each chapter. I have grouped the several 
states and territories according to their geographical 
locations. It will be seen that, for some reason, in that 
portion of the country lying south of the historic Ma- 
son's and Dixon's line the order does not prosper 
as it does north of it, the only exceptions being in 
Maryland and the District of Columbia, which lie im- 
mediately south of the original line. The largest aver- 
age membership is in the District of Columbia!, Rhode 
Island and Maryland following in the order named. 
North Dakota, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Rhode Is- 
land, AVest Virginia;, and Utah have no dormant chap- 
ters, the order being longest established in North Da- 
kota, and in the other jurisdictions in the order 
named. 

Table No. 3 shows the number of masonic lodges 
and master masons in the several states and territories, 
taken from "Drummond's Table" for 1900, but cor- 
rected with later figures where they were obtainable; 
the number of chapters of the Eastern Star in the 
same, with the percentage 1 that number bears to the 
number of lodges; and the number of members in 
each state and territory, with the percentage that num- 
ber bears to the number of master masons. It will be 



STATISTICS. 337 

noticed that Michigan "bears the palm in percentage of 
chapters to lodges, while Oregon leads in the percent- 
age of members to master masons, followed by South 
Dakota and JSTevada. The difference in totals of 
chapters and members between table Eo. 3 and the 
two others is caused by the omission of the three for- 
eign chapters with a membership of 84. 



22 



338 



STATISTICS. 



>0 OOOhhMhIMOO^^^ iO ">* "* IO 

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STATISTICS. 



339 



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340 



STATISTICS. 



TABLE No. 2. 



STATES. 



fee 








O 


W 


CD 








<U 


a> ft 


ft 


-go 


a 


«*J 



ft 






a ft 

So 



Neio Engiand — 

1888. Maine 

1888. New Hampshire 

1869. Vermont 

1869. Massachusetts . . 
1890. Rhode Island... 
1869. Connecticut 



Eastern — 

1868. New York . . 

1869. New Jersey.. 
1887. Pennsylvania 



Mid- West— 
1883. Ohio 
1870. Indiana.. 
1867. Michigan 
1869. Illinois . . 



Western — 

1869. Missouri 

1870. Kansas 

1879. Ind. and Oklahoma 



North- Western — 

1890. Wisconsin . . . 

1870. Iowa 

1869. Minnesota . . . 

1872. Nebraska 

1887. North Dakota 

1882. South Dakota 



Mountain and Plains 

1882. Arizona 

1881. Colorado 

1880. Montana 

1880. Idaho 

1879. Wyoming 

1892. Utah 

1888. New Mexico... 



73 
34 
43 
74 
8 
53 



285 



203 
23 
16 



242 



131 

247 
286 
468 



1,132 



248 

231 

71 



550 



119 
296 
146 
131 
34 
63 



789 



12 

48 
28 
18 
11 

4 



127 



71 
33 
35 
71 
8 
46 



264 



160 
20 
16 



196 



127 

202 
267 
400 



996 



160 

184 

40 



384 



117 

261 

130 

90 

34 

60 



692 



8 
44 
27 
16 
10 
4 
6 

115 



21 



43 
3 



46 



4 
45 

19 

68 



136 



88 
47 
31 



166 



2 
35 
16 
41 



97 



12 



14 

03 
19 
04 

14 

07 



5,141 
2,843 
2,700 
7,047 
1,035 
3,613 

22,379 



67 
86 
77 
99 
129 
80 

85 



21 
13 



19 



03 
18 
07 
15 



12 



31 
20 
43 



30 



10,508 
1,312 
1,186 

13,006 



7.624 
12,613 
20,743 
24,927 

65,907 



9.039 
9,929 
1,527 

20,495 



66 

74 

66 



60 
62 
78 
62 

67 



56 
54 
38 

50 



02 
12 
11 
31 

05 



7,552 
13,987 
8,250 
5,145 
1,997 
2,978 



12 



39.909 



33 
08 
04 
11 
11 



10 



6,909 



65 
54 
63 
57 
59 
49 

58 

45 
74 

59 
42 
48 
60 
53 

60 



STATISTI03. 



341 



TABLE No. 2— Continued. 



STATES. 



bh 












O 


en 


CO 


CO 




"S * 










"So 




Q 


<! 


A 






So 



Pacific — 
1881. Washington 

1880. Oregon 

1869. California*. 
1879. Nevada*... 



Eastern Border — 

1879. Maryland ■ 

1892. Dist.of Columbia 



Southern — 

1896. Virginia 

1892. West Virginia. 

1891. Georgia 

1882. North Carolina 

1893. South Carolina 

1880. Florida 

1891. Alabama 

1870. Mississippi 

1884. Louisiana 

1879. Kentucky 

1880. Tennessee 



South- Western — 
1870. Arkansas . . 
1877. Texas 



Foreign 



RECAPITULATION — 

New England 

Eastern 

Mid- West 

Western 

North- Western 

Mountain and Plains. 

Pacific 

Eastern Border 

Southern 

South-Western 

Foreign 



63 

165 
9 



303 



19 



3 
15 
3 
8 
12 
15 
48 
16 
23 
15 



166 



256 

268 



524 



285 

242 

1,132 

550 

789 

127 

303 

19 

166 

524 

3 



4,140 



58 

60 

151 



277 



17 



176 



264 

196 

996 

384 

692 

115 

277 

17 

77 

176 

3 



3,197 



14 

1 



26 



6 
2 
3 
6 
3 

45 
4 

14 
4 



89 



165 
183 



348 



21 

46 

136 

166 

97 

12 

26 

2 

89 

348 



943 



09 



10 



25 

40 
67 
37 
50 
20 
94 
25 
60 
27 



53 



66 



22 



3,204 

3,725 

11,987 

551 

19,467 



951 
1,612 



2,563 



196 
101 
375 
24 
221 
203 
400 
145 
444 
331 
476 



2,916 



5,363 
3,684 

9,047 



84 



22,379 

13,006 

65,907 

20,495 

39,909 

6,909 

19,467 

2,563 

2,916 

9,047 

84 

202,682 



55 

62 
79 
66 

70 



106 
201 

151 



33 
34 
42 
24 
44 
34 
S3 
48 
37 
37 
43 

38 



58 
43 

51 



28 



85 
66 
67 
50 
58 
60 
70 
151 
38 
51 
28 

63 



*Seven of the eight active chapters in Nevada are on the roll of the 
Grand Chapter of California. The division of members between the 
two states is only approximate. 



342 



STATISTICS. 

TABLE No. 3. 



STATE. 



+s o 

c8 «3 






Alabama 

Arizona. 

Arkansas 

California 

Colorado 

Connecticut 

Delaware 

District of Columbia. 

Florida 

Georgia 

Idaho 

Illinois 

Indiana 

Ind. T. and Oklaho'a 

Iowa 

Kansas 

Kentucky 

Louisiana 

Maine 

Maryland 

Massachusetts 

Michigan 

Minnesota 

Mississippi 

Missouri 

Montana 

Nebraska 

Nevada 

New Hampshire. . 

New Jersey 

New Mexico 

New York 

North Carolina . . . 

North Dakota 

Ohio 

Oregon 

Pennsylvania 

Rhode Island 

South Carolina 

South Dakota 

Tennessee 

Texas 

Utah 

Vermont 

Virginia 

Washington 

West Virginia 

Wisconsin 

Wyoming 



Totals 11,57 



377 
14 

448 
269 

94 
109 

21 

25 
147 
433 

29 
725 
497 
134 
491 
362 
469 
138 
195 
103 
137 
386 
210 
275 
557 

47 
235 

20 

78 
170 

20 
745 
284 

62 
501 

99 
433 

37 
185 

95 
429 
634 

10 
102 
270 
104 
119 
238 

16 



12 

8 

91 

151 

44 
46 

*8 

6 
9 

16 

400 

202 

40 

261 

184 

9 

12 

71 

9 

71 

267 

130 

3 

160 

27 

90 

8 

33 

20 

6 

160 

1 

34 

127 

60 

16 

8 

5 

60 

11 

85 

4 

35 

6 

58 

3 

117 

10 



3,194 



03 

57 
20 
56 
47 
42 

32 

04 
02 
56 
55 
43 
30 
53 
50 
02 
09 
36 
09 
52 
69 
62 
01 
29 
57 
40 
40 
42 
12 
30 
22 
i 

55 
25 
60 
03 
22 
03 
63 
03 
13 
40 
33 
02 
56 
03 
50 
60 



28 



11,291 

735 

13,305 

21,579 

8,932 
17,446 

2,320 

5,579 

4,321 
19,332 

1,300 
57,325 
30,901 

5,920 
29,328 
20,740 
19,870 

5,962 
22,165 

8,021 
39,871 
41,917 
16,401 

9,580 
33,366 

3,144 

12.361 

858 

9,369 

17,386 

922 

98,180 

11,684 

3,492 
44,201 

5,344 
55,403 

5,164 

5,840 

4,677 
17,221 
28,141 
867 
10,193 
12,836 

5,399 

6,567 
17,709 

1,098 

825,563 



400 

356 

5,363 

11,987 

3,259 

3,613 



1,612 
203 
375 
671 

24,927 

12,613 

1,527 

13,987 

9,929 

331 

444 
5,141 

951 

7,047 

20,743 

8,250 

145 
9,039 
1,591 
5,145 

551 
2,843 
1,312 

316 
10,508 
24 
1,997 
7,624 
3,725 
1,186 
1,035 

221 
2,978 

476 
3,684 

239 
2,700 

196 
3,204 

101 
7,552 

477 

202,598 



04 
48 
40 
56 
40 
21 

30 
05 

02 
52 
44 
41 
28 
48 
43 
02 
07 
23 
12 
18 
50 
50 
02 
28 
50 
42 
64 
30 
08 
34 
11 

57 
17 
69 
02 
20 
04 
64 
03 
13 
26 
27 
02 
59 
02 
43 
43 

25 



POSTSCRIPT. 343 

POSTSCRIPT. 

It is said that a woman's letter is never complete 
without a postscript, and perhaps a history of an order 
that partakes so much of the feminine nature as does 
the Eastern Star would naturally require such an ap- 
pendage. It is believed that no attempt has ever been 
made to write a history of any order, certainly not of 
a masonic order, covering the ground so completely 
in all particulars, as is attempted in this, and it is not 
to be wondered at that, in the multitude of subjects, 
some have been inadvertently overlooked, even 
though of greater importance than some that were not. 
Chapter VI should have contained three matters that 
follow here: 

THE STAR OF BETHLEHEM. 

This is a service arranged by Helen IT. Stires, Past 
Grand Matron of Nebraska, to be held by chapters on 
the first Sunday after Christmas, which was adopted 
by that grand chapter in 1895, and published by it. 
It is a service for public worship largely adapted from 
the prayer book. 

THE FIVE JEWELS OF THE ORIENT. 

This is a volume of 244 pages by Juliette T. Bur- 
ton, published by the Masonic Publishing Company, 
in 1871, and is the largest book relative to the order 
that has been heretofore published. It" was an effort 
to recount the lives of the five heroines in a romantic 
way, throwing an air of naturalness around them. 
The first four followed closely the outline of the scrip- 
ture accounts, additional scenes being thrown in to fill 
out the story. Aclah was the Turquoise before Jeph- 
thah ; Ruth the Topaz in the field of Boaz ; Esther the 
Diamond before Ahasuerus, and Martha the Emerald 
before Christ. But the story of Electa, who was rep- 
resented by the Ruby, differs widely from that por- 



344 POSTSCRIPT. 

trayed in the rituals of the order, but as the character 
is purely a fictitious 1 one, the "Lives of the Saints' 7 not 
having Electa 7 ® name recorded, of course sister Bur- 
ton had the right to picture her as she pleased. The 
Mosaic Book made Electa the wife of Gains, while 
sister Burton gives her in marriage: to Adrian, and 
makes her the mother of Gains. Contrary to gen- 
erally received tradition, Mary the mother of Jesus 
is pictured as the head of a large family. Electa is 
transported from Judea to Athens, and from thence 
to Rome, where she suffers martyrdom. 

THE STAB, OF LIGHT. 

A book of 78 pages, by Lizzie J. Beller, published 
w 1898. The titles are The blue veil; Ruth, the 
gleaner; The Signet of Solomon; If a man die shall 
he live again?; and The Red Rose, each illustrating 
the lesson of one of the points of the star. All but the 
fourth are in poetry. 

And this in chapter III: 

MACOY'S MANUAL. 

In "Esoteric of Eastern Star, 77 published by Rob 
Morris 1 in 1867, which was intended for use in con- 
nection with Macoy's Manual, he" said concerning the 
latter: "AH the matter in that volume, except a part 
of the preface, was written by myself," and "The 
passage relative to a grip on page 65, is altogether an 
innovation. There is no grip ever used in conferring 
the Eastern Star degree 1 . Explain this to purchasers 
of the Manual, and say that the only grip used in 
adoptive masonry is; employed in the ceremonies of 
the 'Eastern Star family. 7 " As the manual contains 
no preface, and brother Morris thus, contradicts the 
statement he says he penned, it is difficult to know 
where to draw the line, as to the authorship of it. 



POSTSCRIPT. 345 

CORRECTIONS. 

That errors are; bound to creep into a book of any 
size every printer will testify. Among the known 
ones in this book, are the following, which the reader 
w T ill please note: 

Page 30, lines 8 and 9, for "New Haven," read 
"New London," and for "17" read "15." 

Page 49, line 4, insert "Missouri, Kansas," after 
"Illinois." 

Page 60, eighth line from bottom, for "intolerable," 
re ad ' intolerant. ' ' 

Page 123, add after line 12, "except that in Wisr 
consin an officer forfeits office by unnecessary absence 
from four consecutive meetings." 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. 

PAGE. 

Broken Column 129 

Charter Supreme Constellation, facing 28 

Crown and Scepter 129 

Cup 129 

Diagram for Constellation 135 

Family Membership Board, facing 93 

Goat of Mendes 136 

Labyrinth of Constellation 135 

Portraits— Willis D. Engle, facing 3 

Willis D. Engle, in 1878 42 

Thomas M. Lamb, facing 236 

Robert Macoy, facing 100 

Bob Morris, facing 72 

E. L. Pendleton, facing 244 

Seals— California 183 

Colorado 192 

General Grand Chapter 172 

Indiana Grand Chapter 211 

Indiana Grand Lodge Adopted Masons 207 

Missouri 263 

New Hampshire 272 

New Jersey 275 

Bhode Island 305 

South Dakota 307 

Supreme Constellation 16 

Supreme Grand Chapter 34 

Texas 311 

Vermont 317 

Sheaf 129 

Signets— Engle, facing 176 

Macoy, facing 137 

Morris, facing Title. 

Signs— Lowe's Expose, Mother's 109 

Sister's 109 

Widow's 108 

Wife's 108 

Mosaic 142 

Starry Caudal Appendage, A 54 

Sword and Veil 129 



(347) 



INDEX. 

The following index contains over five hundred titles, and some 
sixteen hundred references, and, it is believed, will enable the 
reader to readily obtain information upon any desired point relative 
to the order. 

PAGE. 

Absence of officers from meetings 329, 345 

Adah, Degree of .' 76 

Addendas to work 123, 145, 195 

Additional degrees 144 

Addresses, Suppression of 208, 283 

Adopted children of grand chapter 241, 297 

Adopted daughters 118, 167 

Adopted Mason, The, periodical 14 

Adopted mothers.... 167 

Adopted sisters 167 

Adoption, French rite of 9 

Adoptive masonry, Grand lodges of 207, 239 

Adoptive Rite (Ritual) 33, 52, 62, 100, 113, et seq. to 140, 195, 316 

Adoptive Rite Revised 62, 103, 183 

Adoptive Rite Ritual 62, 111, 120, 122, 288 

Advancement in office 168 

Affiliation 308,320, 329 

Age of petitioners 118, 119, 257, 262, 278, 293, 314 

Age of married women 167, 212 

Alabama 28, 30, 34, 330, 341, 342 

Alarm 105 

Altar, Five sided 102 

Amaranth degree 64, 110, 149, 179, 186, 229, 271, 318 

Amaranth, Order of the 335 

Anderson, Maria 188 

Angelic Visitors 175 

Appeal 116, 253 

Appeals, Commission of 283 

Aprons. (See Regalia.) 

Arizona 180,338,340, 342 

Arkansas 28, 34, 180-182, 338, 341, 342 

Ark and Dove degree 11 

Arm, Loss of. (See Physical qualifications.) 

Arrest of Charters 236, 248, 261 

Assessments 229 

Associate Matrons „ 180,205, 234 

Auxiliary Societies 167, 245 

Badges 105,243, 328 

Ballot box 297 

Ballot, Collective 228, 232, 297, 306 

Ballots 253, 276 

Ballot, The 116, 119, 212, 221, 290, 298, 329 

Balls 302 

Banner chair 135, 138 

Banners 138 

(349) 



350 INDEX. 

PAGE. 

Banquets 143,308, 312 

Belief 111,115,120, 293 

Beller, Lizzie J 344 

Bender, Inez J 160 

Bible 74, 142, 254, 293, 297, 308 

Bigelow, Ella A 155, 160 

Black, William M 176 

Blind. (See Physical qualifications.) 

Boardinan, J. E. H 161 

Bon Voyage 6 

Book of Instructions 16, 62, 91, 121, 143 

Bradford, Carrie F 141 

British Columbia 334 

Brown, Giles P 161 

Buck, Mary H 224 

Burnham, B. T 286 

Burton, Alonzo J 15, 110, 151, 287 

Burton, Juliette T , 343 

Cabalistic motto 99, 137, 142 

Cabalistic word 99, 137 

California 28, 34, 36, 45, 48, 182-191, 338, 341, 342 

California Revised 63,104, 183 

California Ritual 62, 102, 128, 132, 141, 183 

Candidates, Number of 229, 284, 293, 329 

Card parties 297 

Ceremonies 145- 157 

Chapter of Sorrow— Dike's 146 

Chapter of Sorrow— Engle's 124, 145, 195, 250, 293, 302, 311 

Chapter of Sorrow— Macoy's 101, 111, 133, 145 

Chapters of Sorrow, Grand 185, 219, 253, 255, 269,301, 308, 319 

Chapter organization 100,303, 311 

Chapter room, Use of 297, 302 

Chapters. (See Statistics.) 

Chapters, Names of 159, 293 

Chapters, Permanency of. (See Statistics and Grand Chapter Histories.) 

Chapters, Suspension of 174, 200, 247, 252 

Chaplain 105, 237 

Charity, Works of 199, 202, 205, 209, 214, 220, 223, 263, 265, 269 

276, 282, 301, 307, 312, 313, 327 

Charters outside of jurisdiction 36, 198, 281, 331 

Charters, Duplicate 306 

Children in Chapters 167, 232 

Christian order 119, 120 

Christmas service 269, 343 

Chronology 14, 140 

Clandestine chapters 198, 215, 229, 233 

Clark, S 149 

Collars. (See Regalia.) 

Colorado 34, 192-194, 338, 340, 342 

Colors 125, 142 

Committees, Appointment of 308 

Connecticut 28, 30, 34, 145, 177, 194-198, 338, 340, 342, 345 

Constellations 28, 119 

Constituting ceremonies 104, 111, 156 

Continuance of membership 122, 279, 314, 318 

Copyright 19,56,208, 288 

Corrections 345 

Correspondence committee 284 



INDEX. 351 

PAGE. 

Cottrill, J. P. C 825 

Council, Grand Chapter 237, 260 

Counsel 221 

Courtesies from grand lodges 181, 204, 219, 291, 295, 800, 308, 321, 326, 330 

Courtesies from Knights Templar 224, 225, 256, 269, 292, 314 

Courtesies from lodges 189, 193, 296, 308 

Courtesies from Royal Arch Masons 292 

Covenant of adoption. (See Obligation.) 

Critical and Explanatory Notes 53, 55, 63, 106, 284 

Crombie, John 334 

Crombie's Ritual 63, 101 

Cross and Crown degree 11, 144, 148 

Curtiss, Clarissa B 161 

Dakotah 34 

Daughter of Zion degree 11 

Daughters of Bethlehem degree 11 

Daughters of Zelophadad degree 11 

Deaf and dumb. (See Physical qualifications.) 

Decisions, Following history of each grand body and 165, 166 

Decoration Ceremony 155 

Decoration day 285 

Dedication 2 

Dedicating halls 104, 111 

Defunct chapters, Members of 194 

Degrees, Authority to confer 116, 117, 118, 181 

Degrees, Emblems, Etc 125-144 

Degrees, Names of 97, 125 

Delaware 342 

Dependence of sister on mason's standing 122, 279, 818 

Deputies 117, 118, 208, 293, 311, 329 

Dike, Charles C 146 

Dimits 216 

Dimitted masons 118, 119 

Dimitted masons, relatives of 118, 119, 167, 229, 323 

Dispensations 298,322,324 

Districts. See Grand Chapter Histories and 17 

District conventions. (See Schools of Instruction.) 

District of Columbia 34, 198-201, 336, 338, 341, 342 

Divorce 238 

Drummond's table 336 

Duncan, W. J 110 

Eastern Star, The, periodical 160 

Eastern Star families 31, 201, 344 

Eastern Star homes 203, 282, 284 

Electa, Degree of 86, 109 

Elections 212, 221 

Election of proxies 245, 267, 300 

Electioneering 206,212, 265, 298 

Eligibility to membership 118, 122, 166, 245, 257, 265, 271, 278, 314, 329 

Eligibility to office 194, 221, 241, 247, 271, 279, 297, 298, 315, 320 

Emblems on pentagon 134 

Emblems on points 129 

Engle, Addie C.6 124, 141, 145, 153, 161, 280 

Engle, Willis D 157 

Engle signet 138 

Esther, Degree of 83 

Etiquette, Code of 252, 308 

Examination 140, 166, 311 



352 INDEX. 

PAGE. 

Executive head. (See Grand Chapter Histories.) 

Exemplified work : 145,246 252 

Extinction of grand chapters 173. 176,247, 258,' 299 

Expulsion of master masons. (See Suspension from masonry.) 

Facts — Minnesota 159 

Fairs '. 199,200,278, 282 

Families of the Eastern Star 31, 201, 344 

Families of the Eastern Star, Charter of 31 

Family degree 93 

Family hail 93 

Fees 17,40, 300 

Festal day 51, 172,194, 222, 327 

Fines 238 

First Fruits 139 

Five Jewels of the Orient 343 

Flag, United States 302, 327 

Floral Work , 110, 123, 144, 151, 190, 194, 204. 212, 221, 237, 287 

293. 297, 307, 311, 315, 323, 329 

Floral emblems 133 

Floral emblem, Selection of 94 

Florida 28. 35, 36, 258, 331, 341, 342 

Foley, Elmira 198, 310 

Foreign Lands, Order in 35, 334, 341 

Forfeiture of membership 121, 122 

French Rite of Adoption 9 

Funeral ceremonies 101, 104, 106, 111, 133, 147. 235, 239, 279 

Funerals 143 

Funds 271,303, 329 

Gaskill. Rollin C : 158, 173 

General Grand Chapter 41-60, 124, 165, 166, 170-179, 184, 195 

196, 258, 261, 268, 274, 275, 288, 297, 302. 308, 323, 324, 339 
(See also Macoy and General Grand Chapter.) 

General Grand Chapter Ritual 63, 105, 117 et seq.to 144 

181, 184, 196, 275, 284, 316 

General Grand Chapter Revised 63. 109, 177, 196, 275, 318 

Gems of Song 141 

Georgia 25, 28,331,341, 342 

Goat of Mendes 136 

Golden chain 104 

Golden Gate Chapter No. 1 147 

Good Samaritan degree 11, 13,63, 281 

Grace before meats 237 

Grand chapter. Council of 237, 260 

Grand chapters, Extinction of 173, 176, 247, 258, 299 

Gkakd Chapter Histobies 165-330 

Grand chapters. List of 169 

Grand chapter, Election to membership in 234, 293, 297, 301 

Grand chapter, Representatives in 182, 218, 231, 272 

Grand chapters of sorrow. (See Chapters of Sorrow, Grand.) 
Grand eommanderies, courtesies from. (See Courtesies from Knights 
Templar.) 

Grand honors 105, 232, 302 

Grand lodges, Courtesies from. (See Courtesies from gfand lodges.) 

Grand representatives 283,285, 322 

Grip 99, 344 

Growth of the order 178, 200, 244, 276, 338 

Guiding Light, The 155 

' Hair Pin Masonry " 61 



index. 353 

PAGE. 

Hailing sign 242 

Half sisters 167 

Hastings, Bessie R 161 

Hatch, Chauncey M 194,195 

Hats 167, 253 

Hawaiian Islands 331 

Hepler, Mary A 223, 224 

Heroine of Jericho degree 11, 14, 63, 144 

Heroines, Names of 125 

Hillyer, Giles M 14 

History, Duncan's 110 

Hobe, George J 45 

Hohe, H. Augusta 188 

Holy Virgin degree 10 

Homes, Easter Star 203, 282, 284 

Homes, Masonic 187, 193, 196, 199, 203, 210, 215, 225, 243, 251 

253, 263, 267, 270, 283, 295, 296, 301, 307, 313, 323, 328 

Honorary members 211,253, 257, 263, 327 

" Hopes " 74 

Idaho 332,333,340, 342 

Illinois 25, 28, 32, 35, 48, 201-206, 338, 340, 342 

Illustrations, List of 345 

India 334 

Indiana 25, 28, 30, 32, 35, 37, 40, 42, 46, 207-213, 298, 338, 340, 342 

Indian Territory 213-217, 338, 340, 342 

Initiated, Number, at once 229, 284, 293, 32 

Initiation of master masons 100, 103, 104, 110 

Infidelity 244 

Installing officer 191, 232, 238, 253, 290 

Installation ceremony 101, 103, 106, 111 

Instruction in work, Who may give 302 

Investigating committees 166, 271, 315 

Iowa 25, 29, 32, 35, 217-221, 338, 340, 342 

Jenkins, Edward 35, 273 

Jewels, Officer's 176, 243, 319 

Jews 120 

Jurisdiction 232, 237, 238, 247, 304, 308, 315, 322 

Jurisdiction of General Grand Chapter 171 

Jurisdiction, Grand chapter 184, 258, 281, 331 

Jurisprudence. (See Decisions.) 

Kansas 30, 35, 221-230, 338, 340, 342, 345 

Kentucky 25, 29, 35, 36, 49, 281, 332, 341, 342 

Keystone, periodical 60 

Kindred degree 11, 63 

Kneeling 103,200, 284, 290 

Labyrinth 72, 134 

Ladies' Friend 11, 63, 98, 129 

Ladies' Masonry 10 

Lady of the Cross degree 11 

Lafayette 20 

Laflin, John W 327 

Lamb, Thomas M 50, 53, 56, 104, 113, 169, 208, 234 

Landmarks 40, 115 

Leake, Memory Earnest 202 

Legal holiday 303 

Lights and ShadoAvs of Freemasonry 12 

Lodges, Courtesies from. (See Courtesies from lodges.) 

Lodges, Letters to 262 



354 



INDEX. 



TAGE. 

Lodges in United States, Number of 342 

Louisiana 29, 2-30, 3)38, 341, 342 

Lowe's Expose 63, 106 

Lustration 279 

Macoy, Robert 32 et seq. to 41, 147 et seq. to 151, 169, 185, 186 

239, 261, 273, 280, 282, 283, 285, 317, 335 

Macoy and General Grand Chapter 52-60, 106, 157, 208, 280 

Macoy signet 138 

Macoy's Manual 14, 32, 64, 99, 126 et seq. to 140, 344 

Macoy's Ritual 14, 64, 103, 111, 116 et seq. to 136, 196, 274, 279, 285, 316 

Macoy's Standard 64, 109,117, 120, 122, 288 

Magic lantern monitor 156, 296 

Maids of Jerusalem degree 11^ 

Maine 29,35, 132,231,338,340, 342 

Marches 103, 152, 153, 154 

Marriage affecting membership 212 

Marriage affecting eligibility to membership 119 

Married women, Age of eligibility 167, 212 

Marshal 109 

Martha, Degree of , 85, 102 

Maryland 36, 233, 281, 336, 338, 341, 342 

Masonic Publishing and Manufacturing Company 32, 111 

Mason's Daughter degree 11, 63, 144 

Masons, Obligating 103, 119 

Masonic Advocate, periodical 42, 50, 61 

Masonic halls, Use of 219, 294, 295, 326 

Masonic homes. (See Homes, Masonic.) 

Massachusetts 35, 234-239, 338, 340, 342 

Master masons, Initiation of 100, 103, 104, 110 

Master masons in United States, Number of 342 

Master masons, Suspension or expulsion of. (See Suspension from 
masonry.) 

Master masons visiting 108, 119 

Mathews, Jennie E 141, 158, 217 

Matron's Administrative degree 64, 111, 144, 149 

Mayhew, John M 45 

McCutcheon, Charles 161 

McDonald, Daniel 220 

Meetings, Continuance of 297, 303 

Membership. (See Statistics.) 

Membership board 93 

Membership, Eligibility to. (See Eligibility to Membership). 

Membership, Forfeiture of , 121, 122 

Membership, Continuance of 122, 279,314, 318 

Memorial service. See Chapter of sorrow and 204 

Memorial day 250, 293, 311 

Memorizing work 229 

Michigan 29, 35, 239-246, 337, 388, 840, 342 

Michigan Ritual : 64, 104, 240 

Minneapolis Chapter No. 9 145,173, 246, 250, 252 

Minnesota 34, 145, 158, 173, 246-255, 276,311,338, 340, 342 

Minor Rituals, Ceremonies, Etc 145-161 

Mississippi 29, 35, 43, 173, 255-259, 331, 832, 338, 341, 342 

Missouri 25, 29, 35, 43, 48, 259-266, 338, 340, 342, 345 

Mizpah, periodical 160 

Monitor of Exemplified work 145, 246 

Montana '. 266-268,338,340, 342 

Monument of Gratitude...., 11, 157, 159 



INDEX. 355 

PAGE. 

Monuments— C. M. Hatch 195 

. Kobert Macoy 285 

Morris, Rob 11, 15, 30, 31, 49, 122, 157, 159, 161, 169, 172, 175 

176, 185, 194, 201, 203, 204, 207, 242, 344 

Morris signet 16, 138 

Morris's Manual 64, 91, 120, 126, et seq. to 134 

Moses, William S 188, 299 

Mosaic Book 13, 25, 30. 65, 70-91, 112 et seq. to 143 

Mosaic Second 65, 91 

Mothers of master masons 119, 314 

Mottoes 137, 142 

Musical Star, The 141 

Mystic Tie, The 154, 320 

Names of chapters 159, 293 

Names of Heroines 125 

Nebraska 34,48,268-272,338,340, 342 

Nevada 34, 36,185,337,341, 342 

New Hampshire 34, 272, 338, 340, 342 

New Jersey 25, 34, 45, 48, 119, 173, 176, 177, 273-277, 339, 340, 342 

New Mexico 332, 333, 336, 340, 342 

New York 25, 29, 32, 34, 36, 119, 124, 177, 198, 215, 278-291, 297, 339, 340, 342 

New York Amaranth 335 

New York Dispatch, periodical 55 

New York German 65, 111 

New York Ritual 65, 110, 120,132, 288 

Nonpayment of dues 253, 298 

Nonpayment of dues, Suspension from lodge for 123, 323, 324 

North Carolina 29, 34, 332, 333, 341, 342 

North Dakota 291-294, 336, 339, 340, 342 

Objection after ballot 93, 212, 315 

Objects of the order 112 

Objects, Landmarks, Etc 112-124 

Obligation 75, 100, 116, 284, 315 

Obligating Master Masons 103, 119 

Odes 92, 97, 98, 140, 319 

Odes with music 141 

Office, Eligibility to. (See Eligibility to office.) 

Ohio 35, 294-299, 339, 340, 342 

Oklahoma. (See Indian Territory.) 

Ontario 176, 299 

Opposition to order 224, 294, 295, 325 

Orator, Grand 181 

Oregon 35, 299-303, 337, 339, 341, 342 

Organizing officer. (See Deputies.) 

Origin of the Order 9-22 

Organist 109 

Part One 7-161 

Part Two 163-344 

Paine, Mary L 161 

Past officers, Powers of 167, 216, 253 

Past officers, Rights of 190, 229, 234, 242, 265, 302, 307, 327 

Passes 115,142,221 

Pass-word 99, 141, 167, 184, 271, 315, 319, 329 

Patron an affiliated master mason 194, 298 

Patron's lecture 104, 106, 109, 274, 286 

Penalties 206,329, 345 

Pendleton, E. L 169, 244 

Pennsylvania 29, 35, 303-304, 336, 339, 340, 342 



356 INDEX. 

PAGE. 

Periodicals 161 

Perkins, Carrie M 215 

Petitions 221, 298 

Physical qualifications 120, 107, 179, 212, 221, 232, 253 

Picnics 195, 204, 222 

Pilgrims, The 155 

Pitkin, Lorraine J 141, 177, 202, 205, 235, 292, 327 

Plain Statement, A— Minnesota 159 

Poems 161, 175 

Point Emblems 129 

Portraits, See List of Illustrations and 168, 244 

Postscript 343 

Power, John L 39, 44, 256 

Prayers in ritual 179 

Pbeface 3-5 

Preparatory work 149 

Presiding officer 116, 167, 183, 194, 200, 216, 253, 290 

Price, Mary E. M 208 

Proxies 278,295,304, 316 

Proxies, Election of 245, 267, 300 

Publication prohibited 212 

Public displays 117, 190, 221, 255, 265, 270, 271, 272 302 

Queen of the South degree 64, 110, 111, 144, 147, 179, 186, 229 

271, 282, 317 

Quorum 167,297, 305 

Quorum in grand chapter 233, 305 

Hansford, Nettie 20, 160, 209, 211, 235, 281, 327 

Reception of visitors. (See Mystic Tie.) 

Re-election of officers 298 

Regalia 16, 100, 102, 105,180, 218, 235, 239, 270 

Rehearsals 200 

Relief of brethren 115, 190, 303, 315 

Reports of committees 166, 271, 315 

Representatives in grand chapters 182,218,231, 272 

Representatives, Grand 283,285, 322 

Residence 216,238, 304 

Review, A 157 

Reynolds, Harmon G 25, 201,221, 260 

Rhode Island 304-306, 336, 339, 340, 342 

Rice, Martin H 210 

Ritual, Changes in 166, 171, 177,234, 274, 286, 312, 316, 318, 322 

Ritual, Ownership of 56, 111 

Ritual, Preparation of 170 

Ritual, What it includes 179, 194, 267 

Rituals 62-111 

Rituals, List of 62- 66 

Robes 229 

Rosary, The 65, 97, 126, 129, 133 

Russell, Susanna C 161 

Ruth, Degree of 80 

Saloon Keepers ...253, 271 

Sashes. (See Regalia.) 

Savery, P. M 39, 43, 44, 255 

Schools of Instruction 181, 184, 204, 231, 253, 263, 269, 292, 307, 320, 327 

Scotch Ritual 66 

Scotland 35, 334 

Scripture recitations 106 

Seals, See List of Illustrations and 16, 250, 305 



INDEX. 357 

PAGE. 

Secret Work 115, 192, 199, 205, 219, 254, 292, 297, 301, 307, 312, 317, 322, 327 

Sedgwick, Kimball 15G 

Sedgwick's Monitor 156, 290 

Short Specimen Dramas 145, 196 

Side degrees 10, 185 

Signet emblems 129 et seq. to 138 

Signet, The, periodical 160 

Signets 16, 138 

Signs 99, 105, 108, 115, 142, 221, 266, 308, 322 

Silver anniversaries 205, 212, 276, 285 

Sisterhood degree 144, 152, 287 

Sisters-in-law 118, 143 

Social functions 291 

Social grip 93 

Soliciting membership.... 212 

South Carolina 35, 333, 341, 342 

South Dakota 306-309, 337 339, 340, 342 

Special report — Minnesota 158 

Sponsors 139 

Square and compasses 221, 229 

Stanton, H. T 161, 242 

Star and Cross degree 149 

Star Crowned Cross, The 156 

Star officers, Position of 135, 139, 323 

Star of Bethlehem, The 269, 343 

Star of Light, The 344 

Star, Position of 134 

Star Spangled Banner 302 

Statistics, Tables of 336-342 

Step-daughters 119, 166 

Step-sisters 119 

Stires, Helen H 269, 343 

Supreme Being, Belief in Ill, 115, 120, 293 

Supreme Bodies 23-61 

Supreme Constellation , 25-30, 115 

Supreme Constellation, Charter of 26 

Supreme Council, No. 1 15-19, 23, 117 

Supreme Council, No. 1, Charter of 24 

Supreme Council, No. 2 30 

Supreme Council, No. 3 38-41, 117, 257, 335 

Supreme Grand Chapter 32-40, 115, 256, 257,281, 325, 331, 335 

Supreme Grand Chapter, Charter of 33 

Supreme Grand Chapter, Constitution of 37 

Supreme Grand Chapter, Chapters chartered by 34, 170 

Suppression of addresses 208, 283 

Suspended chapters, Members of 174 

Suspension of chapters 174, 200, 247, 252 

Suspension from Masonry 121, 123, 190, 206, 293, 315, 323, 324 

Sweet Briar degree 11 

Tatem's Monitor 66, 99, 119, 129, 134, 136, 207, 239 

Taxation by General Grand Chapter 172, 268, 308, 324 

Tennessee 30, 35, 281, 309, 339, 341, 342 

Tenney, Julia C 155 

Tessera 138 

Test oath 140, 166, 312 

Texas 29, 35, 177, 281, 309-316, 339, 341, 342 

Thesauros 13, 15-19, 66, 67, 112, 117 et seq. to 144 

Thompson, James A 46 



o^^^ x 



358 INDEX. 

PAGE. 

Timmerman, L 161 

Titles of members 120, 206, 297 

Trials 116, 121, 187, 221, 282, 285, 298 

Trans-Mississippi Exposition 270 

Total abstinence 241 

Unaffiliated masons and relatives 205 

Uniformity of work 105, 195 

Unorganized states and territories 380-333 

Utah im, 336, 310, 342 

Valedictory 98 

Veils 132, 297, 301 

Vermont 29, 35, 132, 316-321, 339, 340, 342 

Vincil, John D 43 

Virginia 35,333,341, 342 

Visit, Right to 116, 194, 229, 297 

Visiting, Master Masons 103 119 

Visitors, Reception of. (See Mystic Tie). 

Vocal Star, The 153, 236, 329 

Voice of Masonry, periodical 13 

Vote, Right to 40, 208 

Voting sign 138, 166, 181 

Washington 35, 321-324, 339, 341, 342 

Washington, George 20 

Welcome ode 97, 319 

West Virginia 333, 336, 341, 342 

Wisconsin 30, 35, 325-329, 339, 340, 342, 345 

Wife's sister 118, 143 

Work, Committees on 199, 222, 312 322 

Work, Details of 200, 229, 266 

World's fair 177, 205, 224, 269 

Wraps 167, 253 

Wyoming 36, 281, 330, 339, 340, 342 

Yost, Mattie A 61 



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